Ormiston Sudbury Academy (OSA) has been recognised for its dedication to inclusion and diversity with the SENDIA SEND Inclusion Award.
The academy was given the prestigious accolade in recognition of its exceptional dedication to providing outstanding support and opportunities for students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
In particular, the report praised how leaders “have a clear understanding of the needs of each child, what makes them tick, and the practical solutions that need to be in place to overcome barriers, and there is clear evidence in classrooms that this is having an impact.” As part of this, assessors highlighted the “strong strategic and operational leadership of SEND…which has built and established a strong culture in supporting pupils with SEND”.
The report also applauded OSA for its creation of innovative student surgeries, where all teachers who work with a child convene with the academy’s designated Director of Inclusion, Mrs Kelly Jacques, to share ideas and best practice and identify ways forward together, with particular praise for the academy’s staff as “an important and valued part of the school’s SEND provision and valued as equal partners.”
Going forward, the academy is committed to continuing building on its SEND provision to continue providing exceptional support and opportunities for students with special educational needs, ensuring that every individual has the chance to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Dominic Howkins, Vice Principal, SENDCo at Ormiston Sudbury Academy said: “Everyone at Ormiston Sudbury Academy holds a clear commitment to fostering an inclusive culture where diversity is celebrated, and every student is valued for their unique strengths and abilities. We are so proud that this passion has been recognised with this award and look forward to celebrating this success with our whole school community.
“We are excited to expand upon these strong foundations to ensure that every student has access to inclusive education and the best possible opportunities, as part of empowering all our learners to reach their fullest potential.”