Outwood Academy Freeston finds itself at the heart of inclusive practice. From the start of the Inclusion Quality Mark assessor’s visit, the layers of support and encouragement were clear to see across the academy. They aim to provide the best education for all pupils, with the highest standard of teaching and learning. A positive learning environment is at the core of their vision, and links with the wider community are used to enrich the lives of staff and pupils alike. The Personal Learning Centre, Learning Support Centre, Bridge and adapted afterschool clubs are in place to ensure that every child’s needs are met, irrespective of what those needs might be.

Charity and kindness are at the heart of life at the academy. Placed prominently in the corner of the main school dining hall, the Random Acts of Kindness Tree serves as a reminder of the good that occurs every day on campus. Every Wednesday the student Pride Lead and Learning Manager refresh the tree with new names, showing that inclusion, kindness and community are core and active values within academy life.

Weekly assembly incorporates topical content that represents different backgrounds, cultures, and local needs. The IQM assessor noted that “praise is daily and celebration events are frequent” in the academy, so that every student is included in the academy’s uplifting environment throughout the year.

Read the full report on the IQM website.