Eldon Primary School has achieved the Inclusive School Award with Flagship status.
Mix of Backgrounds
Eldon Primary School, situated in an inner-city area of high deprivation in Preston, caters to a diverse community. Eldon Primary School is a one-form entry community primary school, with a 28-place full-time equivalent Nursery provision. There are currently around 250 children aged 2 to 11 years old on roll. The school supports a community with significant socioeconomic challenges, evident in its above-average allocation of Pupil Premium (PP) funding, with 37% of pupils eligible for free school meals (FSM). However, a decline in this percentage is noted due to restrictions on accessing funds for new arrivals based on their visa or stay stipulations.
Ethnically diverse, Eldon’s pupil body boasts a mix of backgrounds, with 43% from ethnic minority backgrounds and 50% speaking English as an additional language (EAL), enriching the school with 32 different languages. Notably, a significant portion of pupils (33%) with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) receive support through School Support or an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP), reflecting a range of academic, physical, mental and emotional needs. Despite lower-than-average starting attainment levels, with some significantly lower, pupils exhibit accelerated progress during their time at Eldon, culminating in outcomes broadly aligning with national averages by the time they leave at the end of Year 6, as evidenced in unpublished progress and attainment data (2023).
Endorses Inclusivity and Holistic Development
Eldon endorses inclusivity and holistic development, adopting the ethos of “Eldon expects the best”, ensuring no pupil is left behind. Amidst the post-pandemic era, the school prioritises a cohesive learning community, focusing on Social, Emotional, Mental Health (SEMH) and oracy development. Recognised by Ofsted as an ‘outstanding’ school in its 2017 inspection, the school continues to excel in providing an ambitious curriculum which is accessible to all learners.
The Headteacher exemplifies an unwavering commitment to the inclusion agenda, ensuring that all decisions revolve around what is best for the children. As a result, the pupils are a testament to the school’s success, displaying confidence, friendliness, articulacy and immense pride in their school. Remarkably, their excellent behaviour and attitudes reflect the positive learning environment.
During the assessment day, the observed high standards in pupils’ books and active engagement in the learning, spoke volumes about the quality of teaching and learning. Impressively, parents and carers hold a very positive view of the school, while the staff express feeling supported and effective as a cohesive team, creating a delightful working environment. The school’s ambitious vision for all is evident in the opportunities provided to give children experiences they would not typically encounter, truly living up to their ethos.
Equity of Opportunity
Eldon’s commitment to equity of opportunity, particularly for minority ethnic backgrounds and EAL pupils, is evident in the rising attainment levels attributed to improved teaching and a concentrated effort on all pupils’ progress. Standards and expectations remain high for all stakeholders, giving the children the best opportunities and life chances. The school’s diverse community is viewed as a strength by all. Staff members talk about how every individual, regardless of background, feels accepted and valued.
Everyone in the school community, staff, pupils, parents, carers and governors, all demonstrate immense pride in Eldon’s achievements, reflecting the dedication of everyone involved. Recognised for its innovative and inspiring learning approaches, Eldon has received numerous local, regional and national awards.
The inclusive ethos at Eldon is deeply rooted in high expectations, ambition, love, and aspiration. Through the collaborative efforts of the Senior Leaders, staff and dedicated governance, the school strives to create an environment where every individual feels included, supported and equipped with the tools to excel. The focus on early intervention, involving parents and carers and fostering a culture of aspiration reflects the commitment to providing the best possible opportunities for the pupils, ultimately shaping their future success.
Commitment
At the heart of the school’s inclusive provision lies a fundamental driver: the belief in offering a multitude of possibilities to the children, enabling them to explore and discover their individual identities. This commitment is vividly showcased through events like the school’s ‘Super Learning Days’, a dedicated occasion designed to celebrate the diverse range of possibilities available to pupils. Activities ranging from archery to skateboarding show the school’s dedication to providing unconventional yet enriching experiences. Moreover, initiatives like ‘Pools for Schools’ further exemplify this ethos by offering varied opportunities that extend beyond traditional academic realms, ensuring that each child has access to a broad spectrum of experiences where they can uncover their passions and potentials in a supportive and inclusive environment. You just have to watch the video clips or listen to the radio show excerpts on the school’s website to be bowled over by the range of enriching experiences afforded the children.
The school’s radio initiative is a prime showcase of its commitment to pioneering learning experiences. Led by the enthusiastic Radio Club pupils, the after-school enrichment club is teaching the pupils the technical side of producing a radio broadcast as well as the public speaking skills developed through interviewing members of the school community and external visitors.
During the IQM assessment day, the Head Boy and Girl took charge, engaging the Assessor in a compelling interview to be broadcast on their station. Their incisive questions delved into the essence of the Assessor’s role, perspectives on equal opportunities and sought valuable ‘top tips’ for fostering inclusion. It is through these vibrant exchanges that the school continues to create a dynamic environment and learning beyond conventional boundaries.
To summarise the comments from one of the Governors, Eldon’s relentless pursuit of excellence, evidence-based practices and dedication to addressing demographic differences ensure that every child, regardless of their background, race, gender, or needs, achieves their full potential.
Find out more about the IQM Inclusive School Award
If your school is interested in obtaining the IQM Inclusive School Award or you wish to talk to a member of the IQM team please telephone:
028 7127 7857 (9.00 am to 5.00 pm)
or email: [email protected] for further details.
Want more information on the IQM Award? Click here to request your free IQM information pack.