Inclusion Quality Mark (IQM) has announced eight schools from across the UK, which have been named as recipients of the National Inclusion Champion Award; among them, is a secondary academy in Barnsley.

�ٴ��� Academy Shafton, located in Engine Lane, managed to secure the title by demonstrating excellence in inclusive practices. Feedback from IQM stated that the winners had ‘created welcoming schools where diversity is cherished and celebrated’ and that they are ‘willing to work with other schools to spread the powerful message of inclusion across the UK’.

Joe McCann, CEO at IQM, extended his congratulations to each of the winners. He explained:

"These eight schools exemplify everything IQM stands for. We are looking forward to working with each of you over the next 12 months to help share and promote inclusivity in schools all over the country."

Cara Ackroyd, Executive Principal at �ٴ��� Grange Academies Trust, added:

“On behalf of the �ٴ��� Family of Schools, we are delighted to hear that �ٴ��� Academy Shafton has been nationally recognised for the brilliant inclusive work it does to raise standards and transform the lives of the young people that we serve.

“Shafton is a very special school in a very special community. The staff tirelessly go above and beyond and this is absolutely reflected in the feedback from the Inclusion Quality Mark. Congratulations to the Shafton community on your recognition as National Inclusion Champions.”

�ٴ��� Academy Shafton first achieved the Inclusion Quality Mark back in 2020, after exceeding the required criteria. The areas evaluated to receive the quality mark were: focusing on inclusion values and practice of the school, the learning environment, resources and ICT, learner attitudes, values and personal development, learner progress and impact on learning, and learning and teaching.

In 2022, after continuing to embed inclusive practices within the academy, �ٴ��� Academy Shafton went on to achieve the Inclusive School Award with Flagship Status.