Best Practice in Inclusive Education Award

2025 Winner: River Learning Trust, Oxfordshire

The River Learning Trust (RLT), with 28 schools and 15,000 pupils, prioritises inclusion by investing in specialist expertise, staff training, and innovative SEND support. RLT fosters fully inclusive cultures, exceeding national averages for SEND and disadvantaged pupils. Its strategy includes staff development, collaboration with local partners, and strategic SENDCO leadership. The trust supports EHCP consultations, alternative provision quality assurance, and behaviour training. In 2024, an enhanced communication needs provision was launched, showing positive impact. SEND pupils at RLT outperform national averages in phonics (52% vs. 43%) and GCSEs (23.1% vs. 17%), earning Ofsted and national recognition.

Commended
Ted Wragg Trust, Devon

The Ted Wragg Trust Speech and Language Team transforms education for over 13,000 children, ensuring those with speech, language, and communication needs receive the support they deserve. Led by Kylie Rio-Wood, the team screens Reception and Year 7 students, with over 4,400 screenings in 2023-24 and 5,000 already in 2024-25. They provide specialist group interventions, achieving a 98% success rate in primary and 89% in secondary. The trust also invests in virtual SALT assessments, expanding access to therapy and aiding EHCP referrals. Their work reduces waiting times, improves long-term outcomes, and highlights the need for greater investment in SALT services.

Raynham Primary School, London

As a large mainstream school with two Specially Resourced Provisions (SRPs) for autism and complex needs, Raynham Primary School educates SEND pupils alongside their peers, fostering integration and remarkable progress. The school's Inclusion Hub provides a safe space for pupils and parents, while its pastoral team offers emotional, social, and mental health support. The SRPs set a benchmark for inclusive teaching, benefiting the entire school community. As Enfield’s first Inclusion Charter Champion Setting, Raynham is committed to embedding inclusive practices in all aspects of school life.

Windmill Primary School, Shropshire

Windmill Primary School welcomes children who have struggled in previous schools, integrating them into full-time classrooms with emotional literacy support. The Emotional Literacy Support Coordinator works closely with pupils and families, helping them build confidence and engagement. The school's success rate reflects strategic planning, patience, and empathy. Children with violent tendencies, attachment disorders, or anxiety have transformed into engaged learners through tailored interventions. The school helps to foster emotional resilience, friendship-building, and self-belief, ensuring every child feels valued and supported in a culture that celebrates diversity and promotes respect.

The Hamble School, Hampshire

The Hamble School has been nationally recognised for its outstanding SEND inclusion practices, winning two national awards. The school ensures that every student, regardless of their challenges, has access to tailored support that helps them thrive academically and socially. By adopting innovative teaching strategies, offering individual interventions, and creating an inclusive learning environment, Hamble sets a benchmark for SEND education. Their approach fosters confidence, independence, and success for all learners. This dedication to inclusion not only benefits SEND students but enhances the whole school community, demonstrating that every child has the potential to succeed with the right support.

Statham Primary School, Cheshire

An outstanding commitment to inclusivity has earned Statham Primary School the 'Committed to Inclusion' award for the second consecutive year. The school fosters a culture of respect and equality, ensuring all children feel safe, secure, happy, and empowered to learn. Their structured personal development program nurtures the 'whole child,' aiming to develop resilient, respectful, and confident members of society. By providing opportunities to learn about rights and responsibilities within a diverse society, Statham Primary ensures that every student, including those with Special Educational Needs (SEN), receives tailored support to thrive.

Market Weighton School, York

The Market Weighton School exemplifies exceptional inclusive practices, earning national recognition for its commitment to supporting all students. The school's ethos emphasises understanding and addressing individual student needs, fostering a nurturing environment where every learner thrives. Headteacher Mr. Harrison's participation in panels discussing mainstream education and inclusion further underscores TMWS's dedication to continuous improvement in this area. The school's prospectus highlights a supportive atmosphere, with smaller class sizes and tailored support, ensuring each student receives personalised attention. TMWS's inclusive culture not only enhances academic achievements but also promotes personal growth, preparing students for diverse futures.

2024 Winner: St John's C of E Middle School Academy

Appropriate adaptations and support are put in place to ensure high numbers of pupils with SEN can take part in St. John’s rich array of carefully planned extra-curricular activities. Established seven years ago, the school’s ‘Launchpad’ provides vital support for students with cognition and learning difficulties, while the school works closely with a range of outside agencies. Support is available from Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapists while Gross and fine motor skill intervention is available for pupils with identified physical difficulties.