We are incredibly proud to announce that William Ford C of E Junior School has once again retained its INCLUSION QUALITY MARK Centre of Excellence status. This prestigious recognition is a true reflection of the hard work, dedication, and commitment of our entire school community—our exceptional staff, wonderful pupils, and supportive parents—all of whom have played a vital role in achieving this success.

The report recognised significant progress across the school, with 72% of pupils reaching the expected standard in reading, writing, and maths, a leap from 51% in 2023. We are particularly proud of the improvements made by our Pupil Premium pupils, with outcomes rising from 23% to 70%, a testament to the inclusive strategies and targeted interventions we have implemented. Our Lighthouse provision, which offers tailored support for SEND pupils, was highlighted as an "excellent resource that has a huge positive impact" on pupil outcomes.

Our commitment to mental health and wellbeing was also recognised. Programmes like Place2Be, KICK and Hamish & Milo - Wellbeing Emotional Literacy Resources are well-embedded, providing crucial support for vulnerable pupils. The retention of the IQM Centre of Excellence status also reflects the positive impact of our strong leadership, rigorous monitoring of teaching practices, and the continuous professional development we provide for staff. As noted in the report, “The leadership team is relentless in its focus on inclusion and ensures that all pupils, particularly the disadvantaged, are given the opportunity to succeed.”

The retention of our IQM Centre of Excellence status is not just about academic success; it reflects the whole-child approach we take at William Ford. From our innovative use of Lego education to cultural enrichment activities like theatre visits, restaurant trips, and residentials, we are committed to providing experiences that inspire and challenge every pupil. As the IQM report noted, “Children benefit from a rich, varied curriculum that is designed to broaden their horizons.”

This achievement is not just a celebration of where we are today, but a reflection of the ongoing journey we are on. Our commitment to inclusion and excellence remains at the heart of everything we do, and we will continue working together as a community to ensure that every child at William Ford has the opportunity to thrive.

Thank you to our wonderful staff, pupils, and parents for their unwavering support. Together, we will continue to build a school where everyone is valued, included, and given the chance to succeed.

Full report can be read here: https://lnkd.in/d8yQNb7u