16 June, 2023
Wodensborough Ormiston Academy (WOA) has successfully retained its Inclusion Quality Mark Flagship status as part of a nationally recognised inclusion framework.
It is the second time the school has been recognised for its work as a “truly inclusive school” and solidifies its position as one of only around 100 schools in the country to achieve the prestigious award for best practice.
The academy was praised for its innovative ‘The Seven Year Journey’ programme which supports all students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), or social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs throughout their learning journey. The assessor found that the leadership and pastoral teams at WOA clearly remain a “real strength” with specific praise for the academy’s Autism Resources Centre and bespoke ‘Start Smart’ tutorial programme in encouraging learning and development for all learners.
In particular, WOA’s hard work to develop extra literacy support through the introduction of a brand-new phonics and reading programme for Key Stage 3 and 4 students was applauded for its work in improving reading ages and supporting students that it is okay to need help.
The safeguarding provision at WOA was commended for its immense success with both students and parents. The assessor noted that the academy’s therapeutic mentor, counsellor, and mental health support team all offered outstanding personalised support for students, particularly during stressful periods and exams.
Meanwhile, the assessor was impressed with the academy’s growing specialist SEND post-16 provision and offering with short courses from the Award Scheme Development and Accreditation Network (ASDAN). Students can learn about a variety of topics including personal finance, enterprise, photography, cookery, and animal care courses to foster skills development and prepare them for adulthood.
Leigh Moore, principal said: “I am so pleased that our community has been recognised for this significant award again, it is a true testament to all the amazing hard work that our leaders and staff have continually dedicated to encouraging inclusion and support for all our students.
“Wodensborough Ormiston Academy prides itself on placing inclusion at the heart of everything it does, and there is no better demonstration of this than in our students thoughtful and compassionate attitudes. We’re all incredibly excited to see the academy continue to build on the important work we’ve done so far.”
Category: News
Tags: Inclusion, Quality Mark Flagship status, WOA, Wodensborough Ormiston Academy
