Inclusion

IQM Inclusive School & Centre of Excellence

Richmond Primary School has been recognised with the Inclusion Quality Mark (IQM) Inclusive School Award and IQM Centre of Excellence status, celebrating its exceptional commitment to inclusion, belonging and ensuring every child is empowered to thrive.

Assessed in July 2026, the report described Richmond as a school where “opportunities are expanded rather than restricted, aspirations are raised rather than limited and barriers are addressed rather than accepted” recognising the school’s unwavering commitment to removing barriers, raising aspirations and expanding opportunities for every child.

Through this award, Richmond Primary School stands among a small group of schools across the country recognised for leading the way in inclusive education – ensuring every child can flourish academically, socially, and emotionally.

Learn more about the Inclusion Quality Mark (IQM)

Read the full report below:

What is the Inclusion Quality Mark?

The Inclusion Quality Mark is a national award that recognises schools that demonstrate a deep commitment to inclusion, equality, accessibility and belonging.

Schools are assessed against a comprehensive range of criteria, including leadership, teaching and learning, support for pupils with additional needs, engagement with families and the overall culture of the school.

Centre of Excellence status is awarded to schools that go beyond the Inclusive School standard and demonstrate exemplary practice that can be shared with other schools.

Why Richmond Primary School was recognised

The assessment highlighted a number of strengths that make Richmond Primary School an exceptional and highly inclusive school community.

Opportunity through belonging

The assessor described Richmond as“a school where opportunity is created through belonging” and recognised the strong culture of inclusion that exists across the school. Pupils, staff and families were found to share a genuine sense of belonging, with the school’s HEART values – Happiness, Engagement, Ambition, Respect and Togetherness – embedded in every aspect of school life.

Inclusion at the heart of every decision

The report found that inclusion is not viewed as a separate initiative, but as the lens through which every decision is made. Staff were praised for their commitment to understanding the needs of every child, removing barriers to learning and ensuring high aspirations are held for all pupils, regardless of their starting point.

Removing barriers to learning

Particular praise was given to the school’s inclusive approach to teaching and learning. The assessor highlighted how learning environments, resources and teaching strategies are adapted to meet individual needs whilst maintaining high expectations. Inclusion Trolleys, adaptive teaching approaches and personalised support were recognised as significant strengths of practice across the school.

Innovation and accessibility

The report recognised Richmond’s innovative use of technology to support accessibility, independence and participation. As a Microsoft Showcase School, the school was praised for using digital tools purposefully to remove barriers to learning and enable all children to engage confidently in their education.

Strong relationships and wellbeing

The assessor noted the exceptionally strong relationships that exist across the school community. Pupils were described as confident, kind and respectful, while staff demonstrated empathy, patience and high expectations. The school’s relational approach to behaviour, emotional wellbeing and personal development was recognised as a key strength.

Working in partnership with families

The assessment highlighted the strong, trusting relationships between home and school. Parents spoke positively about the support they receive and described staff as approachable, caring and responsive. The report recognised how families are listened to, supported and actively involved in their children’s education.

Broadening horizons and raising aspirations

The report praised the wide range of enrichment opportunities available to pupils, including educational visits, residential experiences, careers education and leadership opportunities. These experiences help children develop confidence, ambition and an understanding of the wider opportunities available to them beyond their local community.

A Centre of Excellence for inclusion

The assessor concluded that Richmond Primary School is “an inclusive school in the truest sense” and recognised the school’s commitment to equity, aspiration and opportunity for all. The award of IQM Centre of Excellence status reflects the strength of Richmond’s inclusive practice and its growing influence in sharing effective approaches beyond its own school community.