Nine mainstream and special schools in Wisbech and the surrounding area have joined together to run a project that gives pupils opportunities for inclusion. The schools involved are Nene Infants, Ramnoth Junior, Orchards J.M.I., Clarkson Infants, Peckover J.M.I., Elm J.M.I., Beaupre J.M.I., Neale Wade Community College and Meadowgate. The agreed aims of are:
- To encourage pupils to reach their full potential.
- To ensure that all pupils have an educational experience that meets their needs.
- To provide an opportunity for sharing expertise and training between schools.
- To promote the idea of inclusive systems as part of the everyday experience for all.
The project started slowly in the Autumn Term of 2002 with three mainstream schools and the special school and has gradually developed. Nearly forty pupils take part in inclusion sessions on a regular basis and occasional group sessions include many more.
The project is managed at Meadowgate School by an experienced retired special school head teacher and run by two Teaching Assistants. It is funded by money awarded to the school via a bid to the Standards Fund.
The schools identify a few pupils who they feel would benefit from an enhanced curriculum provided in another school. Parents are actively consulted and involved, there is regular liaison between them and the schools. Responsibility for the pupils’ individual programmes is undertaken by both schools.
Annual evaluation helps identify targets for the following year. This has shown that the project is very well received and supported by our partnership schools. School, staff and parents see Inclusion as a way to increase and develop new skills, self confidence and self-esteem for their children.
The project will continue to develop and provide exciting experiences for both pupils and staff in all the schools. |