Hirst Wood Nursery Achieves Centre of Excellence

May 23, 2023

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Hirst Wood Nursery School and Children’s Centre has achieved the Inclusive School Award with Centre of Excellence status.

Inclusive practice is deeply embedded in all that happens at Hirst Wood Nursery School, and it was a pleasure to visit and explore this setting.  The specialist teacher from the SCIL team said, “I advise other settings to come here and look around to see excellent practice being put in place every day.” 

The school has demonstrated all 8 Elements of the IQM award to a high standard, through written evidence, meetings and discussions, resources, online materials, and observations carried out during the assessment day.  There are clear next steps identified and the whole staff team is keen to continue developing their practice.  

Vibrant Community

Hirst Wood recognises, respects, and celebrates each member of its vibrant community as the unique individual they are, and meets their needs accordingly.  Generations of families have links to the school, and close relationships endure long beyond the time a child spends in the setting. 

The Headteacher is particularly skilful in recognising and developing strengths in others to the benefit of both themselves and the community.  She fosters the formation of networks, such as between parents, so that mutual support can be offered between peers and connections are strengthened in a web of relationships which benefit everyone.  

Parents can articulate their children’s starting points, progress, and needs.  They speak with confidence about what children are capable of at home and in school, are well informed and able to advocate for their children here and in future settings. 

One comment from a parent stood out during the assessment day and in many ways encompasses all that follows in the rest of this report.  “I feel when I leave my son here, every member of staff has a relationship with him, knows him and cares about him.  I feel really comfortable leaving him here and that’s like gold, isn’t it?” 

Positive Impact

The positive impact of this nursery is recognised both by current parents and those who feel their children are still benefiting years later.  As one said, “The early interventions here have contributed to a love of reading, exploring new foods and having good friendships in a 9-year-old.”  

As one Governor remarked, “Whatever starting point a child has, they are scaffolded and supported to reach their maximum potential.  EVERY child.” 

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.