Wallisdean Infants originally achieved the Inclusive School Award back in July 2014. This is a smaller than average infant school based in Fareham, Hampshire which has been successfully reassessed in June 2017.
Vision and Strategic Direction
Wallisdean Infant School demonstrates inclusive practice in all areas of school life, in accordance with the vision and strategic direction of the Leadership team, led by the Executive Head. Dedicated staff, ensure that the children are treated as individuals. The learning is appropriately personalised to ensure that children’s needs are met and they therefore make excellent progress.
The school received its last Ofsted in 2014 where it was judged in the ‘Outstanding’ category in all areas, under the strong leadership of the Head. “The school has built upon its high performance over the last five years because of the strong drive and ambition of the Head teacher.”
Pride in the School
There is a sense of pride in the school from all members of the staff and the children, which manifests itself in the warm, positive but focused environment. The school day is business like, yet supportive and fun. This ensures that the children enjoy attending the school and are fully engaged in their learning. Lessons are creative and well planned and resourced. “Routines are the same in all classrooms and this consistency means that time is used well. Pupils are familiar with the high expectations of work and behaviour and are always ready to learn” Ofsted 2014.
Children were Polite, Friendly and Articulate
During the IQM assessment, the children’s behaviour was excellent in both lessons and during the lunchtime period. They were polite, friendly and articulate, and the staff swiftly dealt with, any small incident. The very explicit Golden rules, reinforced and modelled by all the staff, give the children comprehensive guidance. This is supplemented by the sentiments of the school etiquette code, “Be Kind, Think First and Be Polite.” Children are very clear therefore, of the school expectations.
Professional Staff
The staff display professionalism and are willing to reflect upon their practice and refine as appropriate through the CPD systems. The school’s ‘Inclusive Teaching’ has ensured that the gap has narrowed between disadvantaged pupils and their peers. The school is data rich, with the emphasis on rigorous analysis leading to interventions being provided where needed. Provision Mapping is excellent in relation to its detail and focus. Interventions are delivered by Teaching Assistants who are an asset to the school, and support pupil progress in targeted children, who have been identified as having particular needs. “Teaching Assistants are highly trained, specialising in offering particular programmes to support a wide variety of pupils needs.” Ofsted 2014
The Importance of Teamwork
The teamwork displayed by the staff, provides a very good role model to the children, as they show respect and consideration for one another, and combine strengths and talents in their aim of providing the very best for each child.
The EYFS is a great strength of the school, as it accelerates the progress of children who often begin school with weak starting points. By the end of the reception, the percentage achieving a good level of development is similar to the National Average. The Pre-School is now being run by school staff, which will give further scope for ensuring the children are in receipt of high-quality provision.
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 (9.00am to 5.00pm) or email: [email protected] for further details.
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