Ursuline High School Achieves IQM Flagship Status

September 3, 2026

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Ursuline High School has achieved IQM Flagship Status in recognition of its deeply embedded culture of inclusion, equity and belonging. The review highlighted a school where inclusion is understood as a shared responsibility, where student voice shapes decision-making, and where leaders continue to innovate in response to the needs of their community. 

A Culture Driven by Equity 

Inclusion is the defining characteristic of Ursuline High School and is clearly understood as a shared responsibility rather than a standalone initiative. The school’s Catholic ethos underpins a culture where diversity is celebrated, student voice is valued and equity drives decision-making. Staff consistently described a “move away from equality to equity”, while students reflected that “our school not only listens, but acts.” 

This philosophy is evident through initiatives such as the Equalities Committee, Rights Respecting Schools, Culture Day and the Big Sister Project, all of which contribute to a strong sense of belonging across the school community. 

One student commented that “coming here is so diverse; you meet so many people from so many backgrounds.” 

Supporting Every Learner 

The school has made significant progress in strengthening its Internal Alternative Provision, successfully transforming the Willow Room into a highly personalised provision that reflects its inclusive values. 

Rather than functioning as a separate intervention, the Willow Room has become an integral part of the school’s graduated approach to supporting vulnerable learners, enabling students to remain connected to mainstream education while receiving tailored support. 

Students described the Willow Room as a safe and supportive environment where they could regulate their emotions and continue learning. One student explained, “if I get overwhelmed, I can go to the Willow Room and regroup myself,” while another described the provision simply as “very supportive.” 

The introduction of Milo, the therapy dog, has further enhanced students’ emotional wellbeing, with staff observing that “everyone is calmer as a result of Milo.” 

Student Voice in Action 

The Black Girls Matter initiative has been particularly successful and has evolved beyond its original purpose to become a catalyst for wider cultural change. Professional learning with Viv Grant and the Inner Strength Network has strengthened staff confidence in discussing race, representation and equity, leading to greater reflection on professional practice and more inclusive decision-making across the school. 

The review found particularly strong evidence of impact through the Big Sister Project, which has become an important mechanism for strengthening belonging and peer support. One mentor described the project as creating “a nice web of people who know each other,” while another explained that younger students know “there is someone there for them at all times.” 

High Aspirations for the Future 

Leaders have implemented a carefully planned programme of personalised careers education and guidance, providing individual careers interviews, tailored university guidance, apprenticeship support and opportunities for parental engagement. The review found that outcomes for disadvantaged students are particularly encouraging, with progression to both Russell Group and Sutton Trust 30 universities comparable to their peers. 

Importantly, the school views aspiration as something that begins well before students submit university applications. University visits, enrichment opportunities, the PSHEC curriculum and structured careers education contribute to raising aspirations from an early stage. 

Partnerships That Make a Difference 

The school has developed a wide range of purposeful partnerships that enrich pupils’ learning and broaden their understanding of the world beyond the classroom. Work with organisations including the Inner Strength Network, Merton Council, the Metropolitan Police, CAFOD and Rights Respecting Schools provides authentic opportunities for students to influence change and develop as socially responsible citizens. 

Students spoke enthusiastically about initiatives including Refugee Week, Climate Action, the Live Simply Award and the Anti-Racism Charter. One student described the opportunities available at the school as “exceptional.” 

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.