IQM – Centre of Excellence for Inclusion

We are thrilled to announce that in April 2025 we were recognised as a Centre of Excellence for Inclusion, following an assessment through the Inclusion Quality Mark.

On April 22nd we were assessed under the IQM framework.  The assessor looked at our values, leadership, curriculum, teaching and learning, assessment, behaviour, parents and community and recommended that we become a Centre of Excellence for our outstanding inclusive practice. We are thrilled to share with you some of the feedback we received:

'Newick CE Primary School (NPS) is a popular and highly inclusive 1 form entry school, situated in a rural location in East Sussex .... The Headteacher, SLT, staff and Governors are committed to inclusive practices and meeting the individual needs of all their pupils, within their kind and nurturing environment.'

'The Headteacher stated: ‘It’s a community and we use our community to enhance our learning. Here everyone can flourish, and everyone will have access to our enrichment opportunities’. She added that, ‘everybody wants the school to shine’. The strong feeling of the school being a ‘family’ and important part of the local community pervaded the assessment day.'

'The school environment is very well organised and cared for, with beautiful displays throughout, celebrating the school’s broad curriculum, pupil achievements, responsibilities and enrichment activities. The school has maximised the use of the spacious outdoor space available to them, which includes 2 football pitches, a field, astroturf, adventure playground, garden school area, a spirituality garden, playgrounds, and a forest school in the adjacent wooded area.'

'Behaviour for learning observed throughout the review was exemplary. Pupils were observed happily engaging in their learning within the classrooms, with scaffolding, support systems and other adaptations made where required. The pupils who were interviewed were articulate and eager to talk about their school. They enjoy coming to school; say that the teachers are fun and that everyone is really kind. School is a safe place for them, where ‘the teachers make sure you’re comfortable’.'

'The school has an open-door policy and communicates effectively with parents/carers through a range of means, including through the school newsletter. The parents interviewed praised the school for its family and community feel. Comments included: ‘Everyone knows everybody and doesn’t judge. We celebrate difference’ and ‘We are really happy with what the school has to offer, the learning opportunities, the amazing experienced staff and the support that (child name) gets has been faultless’

We are so pleased to have obtained this accreditation, and look forward to working alongside other exemplary centres of excellence in the future. 

Kind regards,

Faye Lawrence

Headteacher