St Piers School and College Achieves IQM Centre of Excellence Status

September 9, 2026

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St Piers School and College has achieved IQM Inclusive School Award with Centre of Excellence Status in recognition of its deeply embedded culture of inclusion and its unwavering commitment to ensuring that every pupil is known, valued and supported to achieve their full potential. The assessment highlighted a school where inclusion is not simply an aspiration but a lived reality. 

A School Where Every Pupil Belongs 

The warm and welcoming ethos of the school was clear from the moment the assessor arrived. Staff greeted pupils enthusiastically at the school gates, creating a positive start to the day and reinforcing the strong relationships that are central to the school’s success. There is a genuine sense of belonging throughout St Piers, with pupils and adults treating one another with kindness, respect and warmth. 

The school caters for a remarkably diverse range of learners, yet every pupil is known as an individual and supported to flourish within an environment where high expectations are matched by equally high levels of care.

One pupil commented, “I like all the adaptations that are made to make sure that I can do everything my friends do.” 

An Outstanding Therapeutic Approach 

The school’s therapeutic model is another outstanding feature of its provision. 

St Piers benefits from an extensive multidisciplinary therapy team whose expertise is fully integrated into everyday school life. Admissions are supported by highly personalised assessments, ensuring that staff develop a comprehensive understanding of each pupil before they begin their journey at the school. 

Therapists work alongside teachers and support staff to ensure that strategies are implemented consistently and effectively. 

Communication is clearly viewed as everyone’s responsibility. The school’s total communication approach is evident throughout the environment, with staff demonstrating an impressive understanding of how pupils communicate in different ways. 

One therapist described the team as “detectives”, continually working together to understand each child’s communication profile and identify the strategies that will enable them to succeed. 

Highly Personalised Learning 

The curriculum has been carefully planned to provide both breadth and progression, enabling pupils to develop academically, socially and emotionally. 

Evidence gathered during learning walks and lesson observations demonstrated how the curriculum is successfully translated into practice through highly personalised teaching approaches. 

Across the school, pupils were observed accessing learning through a range of pathways that reflected their individual communication, cognitive, sensory and physical needs. 

Staff skillfully adapted activities using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), visual supports, objects of reference, sensory resources and therapeutic strategies to ensure that every pupil could participate meaningfully in learning. 

Supporting the Whole Child and Family 

The school’s commitment to holistic support extends well beyond the classroom. 

Weekly ‘Connect’ meetings bring together professionals from across the school to review the needs of identified pupils and ensure that every possible support is in place. This collaborative approach reflects a culture where no child is viewed in isolation and where decisions are always made with the whole child and family in mind. 

Equally impressive is the school’s commitment to supporting families. The twelve-week induction programme for new parents provides information, practical strategies and opportunities to build supportive networks at what can often be an overwhelming time. 

One parent commented, “What they have done for my child and our family is remarkable.” They described communication as open, honest and built upon trust. 

Preparing Pupils for Life Beyond School 

Carefully planned lunchtime clubs allow pupils to develop friendships, practise new skills and pursue personal interests, while also benefiting from the enthusiasm and expertise of staff who willingly share their own talents. 

Community learning is equally impressive, with a wide range of visits ensuring that pupils can apply classroom learning in authentic contexts. Leaders have also established valuable partnerships with local businesses and organisations to create meaningful work experience opportunities, helping pupils prepare for adulthood and broaden their aspirations. 

One phrase repeatedly came to mind throughout the visit: “Why not?” Staff consistently challenge perceived barriers and seek creative solutions that enable every pupil to participate fully. 

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.