Darton Academy Achieves IQM Flagship Status

September 1, 2026

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Darton Academy has achieved IQM Inclusive School Award with Flagship Status. The review highlighted an academy where inclusive practice is central to the Academy Development Plan, recognising that students benefit from academic challenge and rich curricular opportunities. The academy continues to move from strength to strength in terms of its superb inclusive practice and was recognised for the genuine warmth between students and staff, high standards of achievement and aspiration for all, and an unwavering commitment to ensuring every student matters. 

Preparing Students Not Just for Exams, But for Life 

Darton Academy Barnsley caters for over 1100 students and is continually focused on each one as an individual. As the Assistant Principal Personal Development emphasised proudly: “We prepare students not just for exams but for life.” Student behaviour around the academy is exceptional. High expectations are reinforced daily when students are greeted at ‘the blue line’ by senior leaders and members of the pastoral team. This provides an opportunity for staff to note any problems with uniform or equipment which can be quickly solved as soon as they enter the building. A student described how: 

“even a little hello” at ‘the blue line’ made a good start to their day. The academy has high academic standards as evidenced by the highest ever GCSE results last year with outcomes higher than both national and regional averages. According to the IQM Lead, the focus on academic study is balanced with a wide range of rewards and opportunities to celebrate every achievement. 

A Personal Development Programme That Builds Aspirations 

Students with identified vulnerabilities arising from level of reading fluency and previous or current involvement with Social Care will be supported to engage with every possible opportunity to achieve through the Personal Development programme. All the students benefit from this well-structured programme designed to: “build bigger and better aspirations” according to the Assistant Principal Personal Development. Form time is carefully planned to provide a safe space to reflect on goals, challenges and mindset. Form tutors usually take their forms through the year groups, establishing secure relationships. The Assistant Principal Personal Development concluded: “We love to know our students inside out. Darton is a safe and inclusive place where they can shine and thrive.” 

From September the Delta Trust is rolling out the ‘Life of a Student’ strategy. In Year 7, the core offer includes attending the theatre and taking part in a residential visit, alongside a wide range of enrichment opportunities. Reading remains a key priority. Students are encouraged to read for pleasure and those who read all the selected books for their year group can choose a book from the vending machine in the library. 

The Bridge and Enhanced Support 

Students spoke positively about the support available through The Bridge. 

One student related how visiting The Bridge for one session each week: 

“really makes me feel better.” For another student, visiting The Bridge for just 10 minutes helps them feel calmer. The academy is also developing its Enhanced Mainstream Provision. Students involved in the pilot spoke positively about their experiences, with mentoring, personalised timetables, emotional support and opportunities to take responsibility helping them achieve success. The IQM Lead explained: “We want to build on positive interactions and get them to have a positive day.” Staff continue to be creative in finding reasons for every student to achieve. 

A School Where Students Matter 

There are over 40 clubs offered over the week, free of charge, including sports, cooking and a school production. Engagement in after-school activities is tracked for all vulnerable students and any difficulties with attending are addressed. Students are supported to build their confidence to achieve academically while developing wider skills and experiences. The Year 7 and Year 8 students involved in the review were extremely positive about their experiences of the academy. One student summarised the general opinion: “I really like it. Everything is really in place. Everyone’s got a routine and there are lots of people who make you feel that we matter.” 

Moving from Strength to Strength 

The offer for students with additional needs continues to improve. Every student with an EHCP or on the SEND register has a key worker to provide supportive check-ins. Staff at Darton Academy are proud of the community they have created and the difference they make to young people’s lives. Inclusive teaching strategies, strong pastoral systems, meaningful enrichment opportunities and exceptionally positive relationships ensure that students are supported to achieve and thrive. The genuine warmth between students and staff is wonderful to see. 

Find Out More About IQM 

If your school is interested in achieving IQM Inclusive School Award, contact the IQM team on 028 7127 7857 or email admin@iqmaward.com. 

To find out more about IQM and request a free information pack, visit www.iqmaward.com.