Grove Street Primary School Achieves IQM Flagship Award

August 24, 2026

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Grove Street Primary School has achieved the IQM Inclusive School Award with Flagship status, recognising the school’s outstanding commitment to inclusion and its determination to create an environment where every child can thrive, feel valued and reach their potential within a community that celebrates its diverse experiences and aspirations. 

Leading with Love 

Grove Street Primary School is a school where inclusion is not viewed as an initiative or isolated area of practice, but as the foundation upon which the entire school community is built. At the heart of the school is a deeply embedded ethos of compassion, ambition and collective responsibility, underpinned by the belief that every child deserves to feel safe, valued and capable of success. This shared moral purpose is evident in every aspect of school life and is consistently lived out by staff at all levels. Describing their approach, leaders say, “Leading with love grows people,” and this philosophy is clearly reflected in the experiences of children, families and staff across the school. 

One of the school’s greatest strengths is its exceptionally strong team approach. Inclusion is understood as everybody’s responsibility and there is a remarkable consistency in the school’s shared vision and understanding of practice.  

Innovation That Improves Outcomes 

The school has cultivated a culture where staff are empowered to innovate, take risks and think creatively in order to improve outcomes for children. Leaders actively encourage staff to “be brave” in trying new approaches and this has led to highly innovative practice across the school.  

Partnerships with families are another key strength. The school works tirelessly to break down barriers between home and school and has created a culture where parents feel welcomed, valued and supported. Weekly ‘Read with Me’ and ‘Talk with Me’ sessions, book fairs, family learning opportunities and the development of a Family Hub all help to strengthen engagement with families. Leaders place enormous value on relationships, recognising that meaningful partnership with parents is essential to children’s success. The art studio, community partnerships and adult learning opportunities further reinforce the school’s role as a genuine community hub. 

Supporting Families and the Wider Community 

This inclusive ethos is particularly evident within the Early Years provision, where there is a relentless focus on early identification and intervention. Close partnership working with Health Visitors ensures that support can be implemented quickly from the age of two where needed. The school is undertaking pioneering work around Reflex Integration as a universal intervention strategy and staff across Early Years have developed significant expertise in this area. Sensory approaches, smell therapy and food sensory play are carefully used to support children’s development and confidence.  

Building Futures for Every Child 

The curriculum itself reflects the school’s deeply inclusive values. Curriculum leadership is organised through cross-phase teams to ensure that subjects meet the needs of all children throughout the primary years. Alongside this, the school’s ‘Building Futures’ programme exemplifies its ambition for every child. Through carefully planned enrichment opportunities, children are encouraged to broaden their horizons and develop awareness of future possibilities. From learning to travel independently on buses and trains to engaging with universities, local businesses and vocational pathways, the school is actively working to expand children’s aspirations and life experiences. The school’s involvement in national careers and financial education initiatives further demonstrates its determination to prepare children not only for academic success, but for life beyond school. 

Ultimately, what makes Grove Street Primary so exceptional is the authenticity and consistency of its inclusive ethos. There is a palpable sense that every decision is rooted in what is best for children and families. The school combines warmth and nurture with high ambition, creating an environment where children are not simply supported, but genuinely enabled to thrive. The impact of this work is truly life-changing for many children and families. Grove Street Primary is not only transforming outcomes within its own community but is also serving as a powerful example of what deeply relational, courageous and inclusive education can achieve. 

Find Out More About IQM 

If your school is interested in achieving the 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.