Our Approach to Inclusion

At Kielder Primary School and Nursery, inclusion is at the heart of everything we do. As a very small school, we know our children and families exceptionally well. This allows us to provide highly personalised support, strong relationships and a true sense of belonging for every child.

We believe that all children can succeed when barriers to learning, participation and wellbeing are identified early and removed thoughtfully. Our inclusive approach is proactive, flexible and rooted in high expectations for all.

Knowing Every Child as an Individual

Our small size is a strength. It enables us to:

  • Know every child deeply — academically, socially and emotionally

  • Respond quickly when a child needs additional support

  • Offer high levels of 1:1 and small-group support where appropriate

  • Build trusting relationships with families and external partners

  • Adapt provision flexibly as children grow and change

Inclusion at Kielder is not about labels — it is about understanding need and removing barriers so that every child can thrive.

A Graduated Approach to Inclusion

We follow a graduated approach to supporting children, in line with the SEND Code of Practice and current guidance. This applies both to children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and those eligible for Free School Meals / Pupil Premium (FSM/PP).

Universal Support – for All Children

High-quality teaching, strong relationships and inclusive practice form the foundation of learning for every pupil. This includes:

  • High expectations for all learners

  • A poverty-proofed, inclusive curriculum

  • Reasonable adjustments to routines, teaching and expectations

  • Strong pastoral support and emotional wellbeing provision

  • A culture where children feel safe, valued and ready to learn

Targeted Support – for Some Children

When barriers are identified, additional support is put in place, such as:

  • Targeted academic or pastoral interventions

  • Small-group or 1:1 support

  • Safe spaces or trusted adult support

  • Close partnership with families and external agencies

  • Time-limited support that is reviewed regularly

Specialist Support – for a Few Children

Where needs are complex or persistent, support may include:

  • Bespoke provision packages

  • Specialist advice or involvement from external professionals

  • Careful consideration of specialist provision only when needs cannot be met locally

  • Ongoing review to ensure provision remains appropriate and inclusive

Our aim is always to support children successfully within their local mainstream school wherever possible.

Removing Barriers to Learning

We actively work to identify and remove barriers, including:

  • Learning and communication barriers

  • Emotional, social or mental health needs

  • Financial or social disadvantage

  • Attendance or engagement challenges

  • Access to enrichment, trips and wider opportunities

No child is excluded from learning or school life due to circumstance. We believe inclusion means adapting the environment, not the child.

The TEK Framework and Inclusion

Our TEK Framework underpins inclusion across the school. Through its focus on:

  • Academic learning

  • Communication

  • Metacognition

  • Wellbeing

  • Service

  • Innovation

…children develop the knowledge, skills and dispositions they need to succeed both in school and beyond. The TEK Framework supports inclusive practice by valuing progress, effort, reflection and personal growth, not just outcomes.

British Values and Inclusive Practice

Inclusion at Kielder is closely linked to our promotion of British Values, including:

  • Mutual respect and tolerance

  • Individual liberty

  • Democracy and pupil voice

  • The rule of law, applied with fairness and understanding

Children learn that difference is valued, everyone belongs, and all voices matter.

Working in Partnership

We work closely with:

  • Parents and carers

  • Local authority services

  • Health and social care professionals

  • Specialist and partner schools

These partnerships strengthen our inclusive practice and ensure children receive the right support at the right time.

Our Commitment

Inclusion at Kielder Primary School and Nursery means:

  • High expectations for every child

  • Early identification and support

  • Flexible, responsive provision

  • Strong relationships and belonging

  • A relentless focus on removing barriers

We are proud of our inclusive ethos and remain committed to ensuring every child is supported, valued and enabled to succeed.