Inclusivity

Inclusive schools create a community where every individual is valued and treated with respect. They cultivate a sense of belonging which motivates all learners to participate in and contribute to a learning environment underpinned by the four purposes. The learning, teaching and assessment practices are flexible and varied in order to respond to the diverse needs, cultures and interests of all of the learners.

Key Principles

  • Inclusivity should be integral to the vision of every school.

  • Every learner is entitled to a high-quality education which is responsive to their individual needs and enables them to fulfil their potential.

  • Inclusive schools believe in every learner’s innate ability to progress towards the characteristics of the four purposes.

  • Inclusivity in schools begins with building a deep knowledge of all learners’ needs.

  • Staff should collaborate to identify potential barriers to inclusive learning and explore strategies to overcome them.

  • Learner participation is a key principle of the UNCRC and learners’ views should be taken seriously when a curriculum is being designed.


"Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid."

Author unknown



Key considerations:

  1. How are we developing standards and systems to build a culture of inclusivity in our school?

  2. How do we ensure that all learners can access the curriculum in our school?

  3. How do we use our knowledge of the diverse needs, cultures and interests of all our learners when designing and planning our curriculum?

  4. To what extent are we creating collaborative time for staff to engage with the ALN reform and consider its implications for our school?

  5. How are we providing opportunities for all our learners to exercise their right to express themselves and their points of view?