Stable is a word often used to describe the environment that Holtsmere End Infant and Nursery School has created for its pupils and staff. Regardless of position or length of service, staff state that the ethos and values of Holtsmere End make it truly an inclusive school. Leaders are key to maintaining this welcoming and supportive atmosphere that enables its pupils’ academic and developmental progress. Staff proudly state that “everything is driven by the Headteacher”, and in turn the Headteacher attributes the school’s success to the support she receives from her staff. This opinion is shared by the Chair of Governors, who reaffirms that the school uses the resources it has to evolve and do better for all its pupils. Inclusion is an important part of change in the school; when new staff are appointed, they are immersed in the school’s inclusive practices to ensure the school’s values are unaffected by staff changes. This commitment to inclusion is widely known, with the school remaining oversubscribed. The school has found an excellent balance between academic and pastoral provision, weaving children’s individual needs into the curriculum to maximise learning. SEND children are offered access to a sensory circuit to assist their learning and development. The Forest School, in particular, provides an excellent way for all learners to incorporate communication skills whilst enjoying the time to explore the outdoors.
The SEND provision at Holtsmere End Infant and Nursey school shows an unwavering commitment to inclusion. A qualified SENCo provides advice and support for staff to help break down barriers to learning. The creation of Tray Targets for pupils who require personalised learning enables pupils to work independently and to engage with subjects at their own pace and level. External agencies are used to provide as much support as possible for families and children whose needs exceed the school’s capacity, whilst the school continues to provide professional support. The StepOn positive behaviour management programme continues to thrive, and an experienced trainer offers training to new staff and refresher courses to ensure consistency and a calming environment for all leaners. New ideas, such as house points or adapting strategies, allows staff to prevent the escalation of poor behaviour and help children develop greater self-control. There is a strong commitment to maintaining good pupil attendance and most parents are supportive of the school’s insistence that attendance is integral to a good education. But most importantly, the policies at the school are in place to protect and look after the children.
Staff satisfaction is high at Holtsmere End Infant and Nursery school. In light of the national issues faced by schools, staff continue to put their everything into the school and are happy in their workplace. The welcoming environment encourages staff to work together and support each other. They appreciate that they are listened to by leadership, and small tokens of appreciation such as a basket of fruit or messages on walls reminding staff “Today is a good day to have a good day”, show a constant support for wellbeing. Teachers have access to CPD, can engage with research and are up to date with new developments in education. Weekly articles are sent by the Headteacher to staff to read and fill in feedback, in order to bring relevant feedback to the school team. Staff unanimously agree that leaders work to reduce stress levels for all, and the Governers work to ensure the Headteachers’ wellbeing is supported too.
The physical space offered at Holtsmere End reinforces the commitment to making a welcoming space for all. Staff are provided with decluttered and tidy spaces, designed for adults, so they can take breaks from intensive focus on children when teaching. Classrooms are equipped with stimuli and pupils’ work to reinforce a sense of community and engagement, whilst not being overbearing. There has been clear thought put into creating a space that is conducive to learning and somewhere where children and staff alike can thrive.
Parental support also plays a key role in creating an inclusive environment for all. They work on creating a warm and supportive relationship with staff, who in turn make parents feel at ease and welcomed at the school. Teachers are always willing to give feedback to parents and offer the best support they can to signpost parents to relevant resources. It is this commitment to strong communication, allowing parents to see that inclusion extends beyond the four walls of the school, and they are also an important part of the Holtsmere End community.
It is this clear display of community and continuity shows the school’s commitment to a vibrant and inclusive education. Its knowledge of the wider community and the families they serve helps to inform a current, relevant practice that welcomes and provides for everyone. By making wellbeing a priority for staff and pupils, Holtsmere End Infant and Nursery provides a warm and empowering space for everyone to learn and thrive on the first steps of their educational journey.