We are an EDIQM (Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Quality Mark)

Centre of Excellence for Inclusion

EDIQM 2023

The Mount Stewart Federation is honoured to receive the esteemed EDIQM Award, which recognises our unwavering dedication to nurturing the potential of every young person. This accolade is a testament to our inclusive educational philosophy and our deep-seated belief that each young person holds intrinsic value. Our commitment to helping every individual achieve their utmost potential forms the cornerstone of our approach, reflecting our dedication to inclusivity.

Understanding of Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND)

In line with the Education Act 1998 and the SEND Code of Practice, Section 312, we define special educational needs as learning difficulties that necessitate special educational provisions. These difficulties or disabilities might manifest as significantly greater challenges in learning compared to peers or as impediments in utilising standard educational facilities.

Our Federation's SEND Offer

At Mount Stewart Federation, we prioritise early identification of children requiring additional support in various developmental areas, adhering to the SEND Code of Practice 2014 and current regulations. This approach ensures timely and effective support tailored to each child's needs.

Inclusive Learning Approach

We guarantee that pupils with SEND have access to a comprehensive, balanced curriculum through exceptional teaching practices, supplemented by additional and distinct provisions as required. Our interventions are customised to eliminate learning barriers, backed by robust monitoring systems to optimise pupil progress and ensure full curriculum and activity access for all children.

Early Identification of Additional Needs

From the onset of our engagement with a child and their family, we proactively identify any additional needs, including those of children transitioning from nursery with existing statements. This enables us to match appropriate interventions effectively.

Parent and Pupil Involvement in Planning Support

Recognising the crucial role of parental involvement, we encourage parents to communicate openly with their child's teacher regarding progress concerns. We facilitate regular parent-teacher-SENDCO meetings, offering guidance for home support and maintaining continuous home-school communication. All specialist assessment reports are shared and discussed with parents, ensuring transparency and collaboration.

Inclusive Ethos at Mount Stewart Federation

Our inclusive ethos ensures that every pupil, irrespective of their background or needs, achieves their full potential across all aspects of the curriculum. Our Federation Offer, Local Offer, and SEND Policy and Information Report reflect our commitment to supporting and challenging all pupils, including those with SEN and disabilities.

SEND Identification and Support Plans

We identify SEND when a child's progress stalls despite high-quality teaching and targeted interventions. Subsequently, we create individual support plans in partnership with the child and their parents, valuing the child's input in tailoring the support. Collaborations with external agencies are essential in accelerating progress and overcoming learning barriers.

External Agency Collaborations

Our strong relationships with various external agencies, including educational psychologists, speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, and other specialists, enhance our capacity to support diverse needs.

For comprehensive information about our SEND approach, policies, and plans, please visit our school website. We welcome direct inquiries for further details about our offerings at Mount Stewart Federation.

Contact Information

• SENCO: Mrs. Jean Garten
• Inclusion and SEND Champion: Mrs Sally Pond
• SEND and Cultural Diversity Governor: Ms Dorcas Onabanjo

Our efforts at Mount Stewart Federation are rooted in the conviction that every child deserves an education that acknowledges and nurtures their unique abilities and needs, driving us towards excellence in inclusive education.