This week we’re delighted to welcome a Perfect Ten new schools to the IQM family. Can we give a big shout out to St Andrew’s CE Primary School, St Ronan’s College, Lurgan, Cannon Lane Primary School, Johnson Fold Community Primary School, Grove Street Primary School, Oak Tree Primary School, The Godolphin Junior Academy, Preston Manor School, Kedington Primary Academy, and Barrow Hedges Primary School.
Shared Feeling of Respect
First up this week we made our way to Pinner in London where Cannon Lane PS achieved our prestigious Flagship status.
After their visit, our Assessor explained, “Cannon Lane Primary School’s aim is for all children and adults to be happy, safe and successful and there is a shared feeling of respect for each other. Values are integral to the life of the school and as a Rights Respecting School, children are explicitly taught values. The school promotes – Excellence, Respect, Responsibility, Co-operation, Kindness and Resilience and the curriculum has the expectation that all children will, ‘Shine Like Stars’.”
On our Assessor’s tour of the school the calm, purposeful atmosphere was apparent. The behaviour of the pupils was outstanding and even on a very hot day, from reception through to Y6, the pupils were focused on their learning and enjoying it. The Reception classes were in their phonics sessions and subtle changes of approach could be seen in the different classrooms. Additional adult support was being used effectively. Throughout the classrooms it was obvious how individual workstations were used and how they were adapted to the needs of individuals; some were plain and uncluttered whist others were decorated to reflect the pupils’ interests. These workstations are used at appropriate times to help the individuals to focus on their work. Visual timetables are used for the whole class so that it is clear what has been completed and what will come next. Individual visual timetables are also used where appropriate.
• Read more – Cannon Lane Primary Achieves Flagship Status
Calm, Happy and Welcoming
Next to achieve Flagship status this week was St Andrew’s CoE Primary in Lambeth. The school is proud of being an inclusive school and their school motto is ‘Reach for the stars’ and beyond!’ This is underpinned by their 6 core values of faithfulness, joy, kindness, peace, love, and perseverance. Staff also have a St Andrew’s staff values charter.
St Andrew’s is a calm, happy, welcoming, and vibrant community, where staff and Governor’s work as a team and share a commitment to continuous school improvement and meeting the needs of every child. The EHT told our Assessor, “We are a small school, so we know everyone really well. We call it a family – it is a family. The children are the most important thing, and we want everyone to do well.”
The feeling of being a caring family was shared by all who were interviewed during the review day. The Executive Headteacher said that the school identify the children’s individual barriers to learning and staff work hard to overcome these challenges, so that the pupils can achieve success. There is a high level of need among the school population and there is great flexibility with the provision, in order to provide immediate and bespoke interventions where required. In addition, pupil progress meetings are held on a termly basis and the school successfully runs a wide range of impact driven, targeted interventions for pupils.
St Andrew’s CE Primary Achieves Flagship Status
Lively, Happy School
Over in Suffolk Kedington Primary Academy secured Centre of Excellence status this week.
Our Assessor explained, “Outcomes at Kedington are strong and exceed national data for reading, writing and maths. End of KS2 outcomes are particularly high with 83% EXS+ combined with positive progress measures in all subjects. Reading is a strength of the school and KS1 phonics results are well above national averages. In the EYFS, 77% achieved GLD in 2022 and do well from their starting points.
“Kedington Primary Academy is a lively, happy school where children enjoy their experiences and show great respect for each other. The school has a calm, purposeful environment where everyone knows what is expected of them.
All staff have high expectations of children and offer a caring, supportive and encouraging environment where positive relationships are crucial to the progress of all the children. There is a strong emphasis on kindness and good manners and this was evident whenever the children were asked a question or when they moved around the school. They regularly open doors for adults and greet them with a smile. Children mirror this in their relationships with adults and peers alike.”
• Read more – Centre of Excellence for Kedington Primary Academy
No Child Falls Through the Net
Next to secure Centre of Excellence status was Godolphin Junior Academy in Slough.
The pupils are enthusiastic about their time in Godolphin Junior Academy and were able to share what was important to them. Staff are very supportive and teachers make learning fun. They explained they liked how the learning linked concepts together from different subjects, how important celebration assemblies are, that if they feel sad, they are able to speak to people about this. The Year 5 and 6 pupils further highlighted how their mental health is supported. Staff had told our Assessor about the school’s aims in these areas and the pupils were aware, thus demonstrating the effectiveness of the school’s work.
There are a wide range of leadership opportunities open to the pupils, Head Boy and Head Girl (2 boys and 2 girls now as it was noted that ‘deputies’ did not really have much to do), digital champions, young leaders and active ambassadors to name a few. Pupils were able to speak eloquently about these roles as well as describing the range of clubs open to them and the visits and trips they go on. They understand about the Childhood Promise and know that they are given opportunities that they would not always encounter themselves. There is so much that works alongside the curriculum to support and develop the pupils. Pupil voice is a real strength of the school.
Teachers explained that no child falls through the net because of the strength of the information shared by all staff and that the school ensures that every child gets the best start. It is natural for them to adapt their practice so that all pupils are included.
• Read more – Godolphin Junior Academy Achieves Centre of Excellence
Vision Clearly Articulates Inclusion
It was over to Cheadle Hulme next where Oak Tree Primary achieved Centre of Excellence status.
Our Assessor explained, “Oak Tree Primary School’s vision clearly articulates inclusion, it quotes in its welcome that: ‘in a nutshell the staff and senior leaders of the school are totally committed to providing the children of Oak Tree with the very best education possible within an inclusive and supportive environment.’
“The school’s values are built on the simple vision, ‘Achieve Together, Aspire Together, Grow Together.’ Oak Tree is an inspiration to anyone joining the school or visiting. It is a ‘special place’, one that ensures all members of the community feel welcome, comfortable, safe, and valued. A place where they can take part in every aspect of school life being supported, challenged, and enthused.
“It has and continues to serve its community well and when faced with difficulties or sudden change in guidance, the creative team have been innovative in finding ways to get around them and carry on onwards and upwards.”
• Read more – Oak Tree Primary Achieves Centre of Excellence
Soothed by the Therapeutic Environment
We were Wirral bound for our next Centre of Excellence, Grove Street Primary in Merseyside.
After their visit our Assessor explained, “Despite the additional challenges faced, from the moment you walk through the doors at Grove Street Primary School, you are soothed by the therapeutic environment. Across the school, neutral tones, cosy corners, hessian displays, natural foliage and low lighting encourage a sense of calm and security.
“The calming environment reflects the calm atmosphere throughout the school, led by the calm, nurturing approach from the staff. The therapeutic theme spills over into the Leaders’ Offices which have comfortable seating areas, soft furnishings and a homely feel. The school is welcoming and inviting, immediately putting visitors, parents and carers, staff and pupils at ease.
“Pupils and families are met every morning at the gates by members of the Senior Leadership Team and Emotional Literacy Support Assistants (ELSAs). Leaders are visible and accessible to all families. They will respond to any issues, as they arise, to ensure the children have a positive day. The morning greeting initiative started following Covid-19 lockdowns, as the staff felt it was important to rebuild relationships with parents and carers. They have worked hard to break down any barriers and change parents’ perception of education. Now, relationships between home and school are strong. The school has become a real community hub and go-to place for parents and carers in times of need.”
• Read more – Grove Street PS Achieves Centre of Excellence
Unique in so Many Ways
Over in Northern Ireland, St Ronan’s College in Lurgan was delighted to secure Centre of Excellence status.“They prioritise pastoral case and strong relationships above academic achievement and they obviously value each and every student for their unique personality and talents. Subsequently, students thrive and grow and enjoy their learning. The college curriculum and qualifications framework are designed to meet the needs of a very wide range of students with a range of abilities and interests. There is something for everyone.
“The college is the result of a merger of 3 very different schools in Lurgan. This was no minor task but was a major piece of work demanding strong leadership to bring staff and students together under the same vision. The previous Headteacher and the new Principal have shown determined leadership throughout the process and have been able to harness the goodwill of staff and the community by sharing their values and vision for the future. The college is now well established, is popular and it is full.”
• Read more – St Ronan’s College Achieves Centre of Excellence
Inclusion is at the Heart of the School Ethos
Next it was up to Lancashire where Johnson Fold PS achieved the Inclusive School Award.
After visiting the Bolton school our Assessor explained, “Inclusion is at the heart of the Johnson Fold PS ethos, and they are well known for their commitment to providing a high quality, inclusive education for all pupils. Pupils are encouraged to be “the best that they can be” and every member of this ‘Learning Community’ is valued and respected. There is a true sense of teamwork, ‘family’ and mutual support at Johnson Fold. This was evident throughout our my visit in discussions with all stake holders as well as through my observations during the learning walk and over the course of the day.
“The school logo “Partners in Progress” is underpinned by their values of “Teamwork, Respect, High Expectations, and Community”. Their relationships with parents/carers, the community and external partners outline their commitment to being a true ‘Learning Community’. The school’s pledge to inclusive education is further evidenced through their commitment to providing high quality resources and a stunning learning environment.
“They have invested heavily in procuring high quality Continuous Professional Development (CPD), advice and support from specialist professionals and external agencies. The Headteacher and governing body has financed additional service level agreements to support pupils with complex needs.”
• Read more – Johnson Fold PS Achieves Inclusive School Award
Passionate SEND Team
Securing the Inclusive School Award this week was Preston Manor School.
A very passionate SEND team greeted our Assessor as they visited the Wembley school.Our Assessor explained. “When asked what Inclusion meant to them, the SENCo cried as she passionately explained how she had chosen to work in a community school as she wanted to serve the local community and the way to do that was to open all doors to everyone and anyone who wanted to attend. It was only 8.54am on day one of a 2-day assessment. This level of passion and emotion was evident throughout the 2-day visit, every member of the SEND team is keen to make a difference to as many pupils as possible.
“One SEND Lead described how she believed in enjoyment for all and wanted to inspire through a ‘give it a go attitude’. The other Lead referred to being SEND pupils’ megaphone, hoping to empower students by being their voice. The deputy SENCo spoke of the importance of health and happiness, being able to mix socially with all peer groups no matter what the academic challenges. The wellbeing of students was certainly a priority above academic achievement. “
• Read more – Preston Manor Achieves Inclusive School Award
Support for Pupils
Our final school this week is Barrow Hedges PS which also secured the Inclusive School Award.
After visiting the Carshalton school our Assessor explained, “Support for pupils with additional needs, both cognitive and Social Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) is excellent. Across the school there are adaptations and reasonable adjustments made to support all learners, whatever their needs may be. Provision is monitored closely and pupil progress is tracked.
“Leaders have worked hard to overcome the challenges brought on by the Covid 19 pandemic. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Lead spoke about the need to increase provision for language and communication support and how the curriculum and learning environment has been adapted accordingly. Staff have addressed the mental health and wellbeing needs of pupils, staff and families and provision for this came across as a real strength. Just one example is how the Inclusion Leader introduced Zones of Regulation which is now used effectively across the school. All staff now understand the importance of emotional regulation and how it impacts behaviour.
“The school actively promotes staff development and training and has developed a team with strong expertise who are well skilled to meet the needs of all learners.”
• Read more – Barrow Hedges PS Achieves Inclusive School Award
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: [email protected] for further details.
Want more information on the IQM Award? Click here to request your free IQM information pack.