IQM Inclusive School & Centre of Excellence

Chilmington Green Primary School is proud to have achieved both the Inclusion Quality Mark (IQM) Inclusive School Award and IQM Centre of Excellence status. These nationally recognised awards celebrate schools where inclusion is embedded throughout every aspect of school life and where all children are supported to thrive.
 
Following a rigorous assessment in June 2026, the school was recognised for its exceptional commitment to inclusion, belonging and ensuring every child has the opportunity to succeed. The assessor described Chilmington Green as a “distinctive and special community” where pupils, staff and families feel “valued, included and inspired.”
 
Through this award, Chilmington Green 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.

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 Chilmington Green was recognised

The assessment highlighted a number of strengths that make Chilmington Green a truly inclusive school community.

A strong sense of belonging

The assessor found that pupils, staff and families share a strong sense of belonging and described the school as a place where everyone feels welcomed, valued and supported. Parents spoke positively about the school’s nurturing environment, with one describing it as “a second family.”

Inclusion for every child

The report recognised the school’s unwavering focus on equity and ensuring every child receives the support they need to succeed. Staff were praised for their collective commitment to understanding each child as an individual and providing the support, challenge and encouragement needed for them to flourish.

Specialist support that makes a difference

Particular praise was given to the school’s Specialist Resource Provision and Inclusion Base, which provide highly personalised support whilst ensuring children remain fully included within the wider life of the school. These provisions were recognised as examples of inclusive practice that are fully embedded within the school community.

Innovation and accessibility

The report highlighted Chilmington Green’s innovative use of technology to support accessibility and learning. The assessor noted how digital tools and immersive learning experiences help remove barriers, promote independence and create opportunities for all pupils to engage in learning.

Opportunities for all

The assessment also recognised the school’s commitment to ensuring all children can access the full breadth of school life. Educational visits, enrichment experiences, leadership opportunities, sports, culture and extracurricular activities are planned with inclusion at the forefront so that every child can participate and succeed.