St Conor’s Achieves Inclusive School Award Again

July 16, 2018

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St Conor’s Primary School and Nursery in Omagh, Co. Tyrone has achieved the Inclusive School Award.

Context

St Conor’s Primary School and Nursery Unit is a catholic maintained co-educational primary school which sits on the outskirts of Omagh. It has served the community since it opened in 1973 replacing its predecessor, Culmore Primary School. The school is 2 form entry, with a nursery unit. Most of the children attend from the neighbouring housing developments.

An Exciting Learning Environment

The enrolment has risen over the last number of years and it now operates at full capacity. The principal has, and continues to, make the most of the spacious building and grounds to create an exciting and stimulating learning environment for all learners e.g. the refurbished library, sensory room and ICT suite.

School Vision and Mission

The school is a very inclusive establishment which clearly lives up to its vision: “making a difference in the lives of all our pupils”

It clearly demonstrated that it lives up to the school mission statement and the aims for all of its pupils, which are:-

• Developing them socially, emotionally, intellectually and academically to the very best of its ability.
• The development of enquiring minds and a spirit of curiosity.
• Becoming lifelong learners.
• The achievement of high standards.
• The development of flexibility and adaptability.
• The promotion of high self-esteem and respect.

An Inclusive Ethos and Culture

The school prides itself on its inclusive ethos and culture. In the recent inspection their report was graded as outstanding by ETI in:-

• Achievements and standards.
• Provision for learning.
• Leadership and management.

Excellent Inclusive Practice

Throughout the 2 day assessment there was clear evidence from both observation and paperwork of the excellent inclusive practice of the Principal, Vice Principal and staff team. The inclusion agenda is wholeheartedly supported by structures that have been put in place to ensure that there is an open dialogue with all stakeholders to continue to ensure that the voice of the pupil is heard.

Proud Children

The children who attend the school are proud to belong to their inclusive school. They are valued for being who they are and are supported in any area in which they may be challenged so that they can overcome barriers to learning. There is a determination to ensure that all children can succeed. There is a strong inclusion ethos based on the need for continual improvement and striving for the best outcomes for children.

Welcoming and Friendly

There was a warm, welcoming and friendly approach from all staff, pupils, parents and members of the wider school community throughout the visit. My observations and involvement with the pupils throughout the assessment process, clearly demonstrated that they are ambassadors for the school. Their exemplary manners, behaviour and comments reflect their pride in their school. This is a key to the school’s success. Time was made available to visit classes, attend assemblies and to tour the school. The classes are well organised with vibrant inclusive displays which both celebrate the work of the children and help to prompt independence in learning. Lessons are skilfully planned and differentiated. Pupil progress is tracked by the Principal and SLT and monitored by the BoG. The school and eco council voice ideas on how their school can be made better. This should be considered one of the most positive assets of the school. A highlight of my visit was listening to a prepared (by the pupil and without help from any adult) statement by one of the members of the school eco council on their roles and responsibilities.

The Importance of Well-Being

The well-being of all stakeholders is of great importance. Everyone is well cared for and well supported in their respective roles, both professionally and personally. All stakeholders have a sense of belonging to the school and inclusion is well embraced by everyone.

Sources of Evidence

The assessment was effectively organised by the Principal and the entire staff team. There was the opportunity for touring the school, viewing associated documentation and speaking to a variety of stakeholders. The completed Self Evaluation Report document was made available before the assessment process.

Outstanding Example of Inclusive Practice

St. Conor’s is an outstanding example of inclusive practice, energy and aspiration. The principal and her team lead inclusion with courageous forward thinking and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to succeed and should not be deterred because of complacency or a lack of funding.

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@inclusionmark.co.uk for further details.

Want more information on the IQM Award? Click here to request your free IQM information pack.