2.3 Supporting whole school inclusive approaches
In this section you will explore approaches to support whole school inclusion.
Many of these approaches will be more appropriate for the school management team to consider - for example, ensuring that policies, protocols and systems are in place throughout the school.
However, there are many ways in which all staff can contribute to these approaches; indeed, they will not work effectively as whole school approaches unless they are understood and implemented by everyone.
When whole school approaches form part of everyday practice, they support the inclusion, engagement and participation of all learners. In an inclusive school, all learners are made to feel welcome and included, and individual differences are respected and celebrated.
Some examples of whole school approaches are included here along with practical strategies which exemplify how subject teachers can contribute towards them or play a role in their implementation.
Responding to legislation, policy and guidance
It is important to be aware how legislation, policy and guidance inform practice and how they are implemented across the school.
Below are some of the links between policy and practice which support the development of inclusive school approaches:
Ensure staff within the learning community are supported to be aware of their professional duties and legal responsibilities.
Ensure that legislation, policy and guidelines are used by staff when documenting and providing evidence of all decisions made and actions taken.
Establishments should ensure parents/carers and learners are aware of their rights, particularly relating to inclusion, equality and diversity, discrimination and confidentiality.
2.2 Ensuring schools and classrooms are inclusive