LVS Hassocks is a school that fosters positive relationships and celebrates diversity and inclusion in all its forms. Through a flexible and open approach, the school is able to nurture and welcome students from all walks of life, making each one feel valued and empowered by the end of their time at the school. Staff know every pupil well, and work consistently to meet the individual needs of pupils and work as a community to overcome challenges. Their inspiring Headteacher has transformed the culture as LVS Hassocks, who serves as a positive role model for pupils and staff alike, creating an environment where everyone feels valued and included. Staff speak passionately about the genuine care and support that is provided at LVS Hassocks, with the Headteacher’s leadership significantly transforming staff morale. There is strong evidence to back up the praise from staff; there is an impressive retention rate, with no staff departures reported in the previous year. A key to this positive working environment is the effective communication and support provided by the senior leadership team. There is an active commitment from the SLT to invest in personnel development and professional growth of its staff. It is this commitment to career progression for all staff that has solidified employee loyalty. The school is aware of the issues faced by the school, such as rising student enrolment, so initiatives are in place to build skills for middle leaders to boost their confidence and participation through inclusive Friday SLT meetings. The focus on inclusion and empowerment for staff is a testament to the school’s ethos as a whole – inclusion is not just a student issue; it is vital that all members of the community feel welcomed and uplifted.
Inclusion is at the core of academic life at LVS Hassocks. Every student is supported to leave with a qualification appropriate to their needs. The school has embedded a culture that all students can achieve, and the fact they do is a clear indicator of an ongoing commitment to inclusive education. A strong link with parents allows children to succeed throughout their time at the school. Conversations with parents reveal a sense of pride in their children’s school, stating they “adapt everything to meet our children’s needs rather than our children having to adapt. There is no more trying to fit square pegs into round holes”. There is a strong sense of collaboration at the school, where their input is genuinely appreciated and listened to. Many parents note that their children return from school feeling happy and supported and feel at ease when approaching staff with any concerns they may have. When our assessor visited the school, one parent aptly said that “staff go above and beyond for all the pupils, they really are incredible”.
It is the positive attitude of the children that really speaks to the inclusive environment LVS Hassocks has created for learners. Students are appreciative of the welcoming learning environment offered to them, especially the outdoor learning facilities. They speak passionately about how they are able to be their authentic selves at school, and they can always speak with a trusted member of staff when they need to. This, in turn, is reflected in the high levels of respect shown to staff by the pupils, and the pride staff feel watching these young people achieve. Indeed, staff show pride in their contribution to student success and are unwavering in their commitment to quality education for all. Leadership echoes this commitment, who care deeply about students reaching their full potential. Support extends beyond school hours, with staff willing and ready to assist parents and students in and out of school. This transparency from leadership is appreciated by students, parents, and staff alike, with all groups feeling valued and respected. Reflection is another important aspect at the school, as a means of tracking progress and addressing emerging areas of need, enhancing and refining policies at every stage. During our assessor’s visit, stakeholders used similar words to describe the LVS Hassocks experience, with terms such as “valued” and “listened to” appearing often. It is this collective enthusiasm and support for the school’s vision of inclusive education that is testament to its wide impact.
LVS Hassocks embodies the very nature of inclusion in everything it does. Staff, students, and parents work together to build an educational community that everyone is proud of. Students leave school feeling happy and empowered, with staff proudly supporting them every step of the way. Staff find inspiration in their students, and in turn they are inspired to achieve and be the best versions of themselves every day. LVS Hassocks prove that where there is whole community support, anything is possible.
