Wool Preschool and Primary School Achieves IQM Inclusive School Award

September 3, 2026

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Wool Preschool and Primary School has achieved the IQM Inclusive School Award in recognition of its deeply embedded culture of inclusion, belonging and high aspirations. The assessment highlighted a school where relationships, wellbeing and achievement work seamlessly together, ensuring that every child is known, valued and supported to flourish. 

A School Where Every Child Matters 

During the assessment, it became immediately apparent that inclusion is central to the identity of Wool Preschool and Primary School. Rather than being viewed as a separate aspect of provision, it influences decisions, relationships and practice throughout the school. A shared belief exists that children achieve best when they feel valued, understood and that they belong, and this was reflected consistently in discussions with leaders, staff, governors, parents and pupils. Particularly impressive was the extent to which staff know pupils as individuals. Conversations demonstrated a detailed understanding of children’s strengths, interests and barriers to learning. Throughout the assessment, a recurring message emerged: “children should not be expected to fit the system; instead, the system should adapt to meet the needs of children.” Parents provided some of the strongest evidence of the school’s values in action. One parent praised the school’s: “individualised care for my child” and reflected positively on the way staff continually considered: “what’s now and what’s next” as needs changed over time. 

Relationships at the Heart of Inclusion 

A notable strength is the school’s understanding of the importance of relationships as the foundation for successful inclusion. Whether supporting families through periods of transition, responding to emerging needs or working with external professionals, leaders consistently place collaboration and partnership at the heart of their work. 

Staff demonstrate collective ownership of inclusion, parents feel valued as partners, governors actively champion inclusive practice and pupils speak positively about their experiences. “Inclusion is not simply something Wool Preschool and Primary School does; it is fundamentally who the school is.” 

High Aspirations and Ambitious Learning 

Throughout the assessment, a strong commitment to curriculum inclusion was evident. Leaders have developed a curriculum that reflects both the needs of the local community and a clear belief that every child should be able to access rich, meaningful and ambitious learning experiences. Staff understand that inclusion does not mean reducing expectations. “Instead, barriers to participation are identified and removed so that pupils can access the same broad curriculum as their peers.” Adaptation is viewed positively throughout the school. Rather than being seen as something separate or additional, it is used thoughtfully to widen access and increase participation.  

Belonging, Wellbeing and Personal Development 

The impact of the school’s Therapeutic Thinking approach is particularly striking. Rather than focusing on compliance, staff seek to understand the reasons behind behaviour and support children to develop the skills needed to succeed. Discussions with adults demonstrated a shared understanding that behaviour is a form of communication and that self-regulation, emotional literacy and relationship-building must be taught explicitly. A particularly powerful example of the school’s commitment to belonging is the termly Grow and Flourish Day. Leaders recognise that successful learning begins with connection and use these opportunities to rebuild relationships, promote wellbeing and help children reconnect with peers and trusted adults. The school’s values of Love, Faith, Perseverance, Aspiration and Respect make a significant contribution to pupils’ personal development. Children spoke confidently about these values and demonstrated an understanding of how they influence behaviour, decision-making and relationships. 

Rooted in Community 

The school’s vision of being: “rooted in community to grow and flourish” is reflected in the extensive range of opportunities that help pupils develop a strong sense of belonging whilst broadening their understanding of the wider world. A particular strength is the reciprocal nature of these relationships. The school not only benefits from community partnerships but actively serves the community itself. Families, community groups and support services regard the school as a welcoming hub where support, connection and opportunities can be accessed. The strength of these relationships was captured by one governor who explained: “it is about being a human, not just a vicar or governor.” Most impressive was the coherence between the school’s vision and the experiences provided for pupils. As a result, pupils leave Wool Preschool and Primary School with a strong sense of belonging, an appreciation of their local community and the confidence to engage positively with the wider world. 

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.