Glasshoughton Infants Achieves Centre of Excellence

September 26, 2022

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Glasshoughton Infant Academy, Castleford in West Yorkshire, part of the Castleford Academy Trust, has achieved The Inclusive School Award with Centre of Excellence status.

School In Context

Glasshoughton Infant Academy (GIA) is an infant school and nursery with 243 pupils on roll between the ages of 3 to 7. At the start of KS2 the pupils transition to local junior schools with a robust transition package in place. Glasshoughton Infant Academy were extremely welcoming and provided a wealth of evidence for the Inclusive School Award Assessment and it was evident that inclusion is at the heart of the school and that it has an adaptable provision, supporting the identification and removal of barriers to achievement. The Academy is part of the Castleford Academy Trust.

Impressive Leadership

B11 reported that the Academy’s ‘leadership of the school, under the headteacher’s very clear direction, is impressive.’ The leaders are clear about the vision and next steps for the school. They challenge themselves and are continually reflecting on their practice to ensure it meets the needs of all pupils and families. The SENDCo has an open-door policy, and her expertise is well utilised, with her support very much appreciated by both staff and parents. All staff are reflective and want the best outcome for all pupils whatever their individual need. Furthermore, B11 recognised ‘the vision is explicitly shared and understood by all…’ This is evident from the progress data provided, with the Academy making positive progress with Reception data showing 75.8% – 10% progress against national averages and 9% higher than the Local Authority Average. This trend continues throughout the years, significantly higher for Reading and Maths in Y2 at 51.7% at Greater Depth for Reading and 48.3% at greater depth for Maths. This is 33% higher than the national average grades. B11 recognised ‘considerable emphasis has been placed on developing teachers’ subject knowledge and Senior Leaders and Subject Leaders work closely together to achieve this.’

Inclusive Practice

Leaders at Glasshoughton Infant Academy are passionate about ensuring inclusion is at the heart of their school, which was evident from the discussion with the SENDCo, Headteacher and all those involved in the work and life of the school. They are clear that the school is there to serve their community, and that all are welcome. They do all they can to ensure all children are supported to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Collaboration for Success

Current attendance figures are 94.3%, which is currently above the national average due to the consistent approach and implementation of the Academy’s policy. Pupils are aware of their attendance target of 96.5% and excellent rewards are in place to encourage attendance and motivation. Parents and pupils are met by all staff every morning which has encouraged relationships and a real community feel. Clear structures and processes are well embedded regarding attendance and community. There is a collaborative feel with everyone contributing to the vision and strategic direction of the school.

Learning Mentor

Glasshoughton Infant Academy has employed a Learning Mentor to offer a service to the children and their families in support of the emotional wellbeing of more vulnerable pupils. There are no time limits to this resource as this is dependent of the student’s individual needs, there are several available resources to be accessed to support pupils to understand their needs. The Learning Mentor is trained in Mental Health First Aid, offers therapeutic play, Lego Therapy, and support for parents by providing Triple P parenting support. The Learning Mentor is also part of the Safeguarding Team, as such she liaises with social care and Early Help and has built robust relationships with families from early in the child’s schooling, through provision of a Tot’s Group. The high support provision is adaptable and individual to the child and their families’ requirements.

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: info@iqmaward.com for further details.

Want more information on the IQM Award? Click here to request your free IQM information pack