In a perfect inclusive school, the ethos and culture would reflect and include a very strong emphasis on celebrating difference and diversity through the curriculum, assemblies that highlight different cultures, which celebrate and enhance pupils’ learning.  All pupils have equal access to the life and work of the school and leaders achieve this through clear policies, which show how the school engages pupils and the local community.  Teachers and support staff promote the respect of each individual particularly well and policies are created, enforced and supported.

In order for the above to be achieved two of my suggestions include:

1.       Give the students a voice - Create groups and opportunities that allows students full participation in activities, groups where students can contribute effectively to the decision making of the school, forums to air their challenges or problems, opportunities to have their peers educated etc. As a result, nearly all pupils will be confident that the school listens to their views.  These opportunities develop pupils’ self-confidence, self-esteem and speaking and listening skills. Students will also learn to value themselves and the environment and by extension develop a greater sense of belonging to their school.

2.       Professional development for teachers - If we are looking at inclusion then the teacher needs to be holistically prepared and trained at all levels. Effective professional development enables teachers to actively initiate and carry out effective teaching in their own schools and classrooms. Administration should offer support and foster collaboration where teachers are able to work together to identify the needed resources and strategies to meet the needs of all the students in the classroom. This can cause a ripple effect in reaching parents and members of the wider community.