Richmond Primary School Achieves Centre of Excellence Status

September 2, 2026

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Richmond Primary School has achieved IQM Inclusive School Award with Centre of Excellence Status in recognition of its deeply embedded culture of inclusion, belonging and aspiration. The assessment highlighted a school where every decision is made through the lens of equity and opportunity, ensuring that all pupils are supported to flourish regardless of their starting point. 

Children at the HEART of Every Decision 

During the visit, it became immediately apparent that the HEART values (Happiness, Engagement, Ambition, Respect and Togetherness) are not simply displayed but lived through every interaction, every relationship and every decision made across the school. As a result, inclusion is experienced rather than described. As the Headteacher explained: “Inclusion is something we breathe every day.” This philosophy is underpinned by a simple but powerful principle: children are at the HEART of every decision. 

One of the most striking features of the visit was the genuine sense of belonging experienced across the school. A Year 6 pupil summed this up beautifully by saying: 

“Happy brains, happy hearts, we stick together, these are our values.” Relationships are central to Richmond’s culture. Adults knew pupils exceptionally well, and pupils responded with warmth, confidence and trust. 

A Culture of Belonging 

The school’s philosophy of adapting the environment to meet the needs of the child, rather than expecting the child to adapt to the environment, was evident throughout the day and represents a significant strength of practice. Underpinning this work are exceptionally strong relationships upon which the school has built its success. Pupils demonstrated confidence, kindness and mutual respect, whilst staff consistently modelled empathy, patience and high expectations. Parents spoke warmly of the trust they have in the school, describing staff who know both children and families exceptionally well. This culture extends beyond the classroom through meaningful partnerships with external agencies, the local community and the Trust, creating a network of support that strengthens outcomes for pupils and families alike. 

The impact of this work is evident throughout the school. Pupils are engaged in their learning, staff are committed to continual improvement and families speak positively about the support they receive. Improvements in attendance, reductions in suspensions and rising academic outcomes provide measurable evidence of the effectiveness of the school’s approach, but it is the culture of belonging, optimism and collective responsibility that leaves the most lasting impression. 

Richmond Primary School is an inclusive school in the truest sense. Inclusion is not viewed as an initiative or a discrete aspect of school improvement; it is the lens through which every decision is made. The school believes that every child deserves opportunity, regardless of their starting point. Through visionary leadership, dedicated staff and strong community partnerships, Richmond continually removes barriers, broadens horizons and enables every child to flourish. 

Broadening Horizons and Raising Aspirations 

Richmond actively seeks opportunities that broaden pupils’ horizons and encourage them to think beyond their immediate experiences. Enrichment opportunities, including Trust-wide residential experiences, educational visits and career-related learning, encourage children to explore possibilities beyond their immediate community. 

Discussions with pupils demonstrated the positive impact these experiences have had upon their aspirations, with children confidently describing a wider range of future careers and the pathways available to achieve them.  

Leadership with High Expectations 

Leadership at Richmond Primary School is characterised by clarity of purpose, high expectations and an unwavering commitment to continual improvement. Rather than accepting established practice because it has always been done that way, Richmond demonstrates a willingness to evaluate, refine and innovate. This philosophy was captured by one senior leader who explained: “If it doesn’t have impact, we re-think it.” 

Trust leaders described Richmond as: “inspirational” “awe-inspiring” and 

“the North Star for school improvement.” 

Find Out More About IQM 

If your school is interested in achieving 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.