Barnton Community Primary and Nursery School wins national award for inclusion

Barnton Community Primary and Nursery School has been hailed for having the most inclusive practice across a school for their unique approach in getting to know what inspires every single pupil to learn.

Special needs co-ordinators Amy Thomson and Bex Wieckowski received the prestigious award at a special ceremony at Solent University in Southampton.

"I'm absolutely delighted for the whole team," said headteacher Alison Lawson. "All our staff have inclusion at the heart of everything we do. We are proud to be a school of opportunity where every child is supported and encouraged to achieve their full potential and to find their unique gifts and talents."

Every effort is made to identify the hobbies and interests each child really enjoys.

Front, Thea Williamson, rear from left, Robert Hawthorne, Evie Wright, Max Cawley Mia Raizyte and Alexander Wilson Bell

"We try and find out whatever it is that our children are good at and build on that," said Mrs Lawson. "Whether it is fencing, playing a musical instrument, writing stories or a particular sport.

"Whatever it is that engages the child we work flexibly to include it into the curriculum. That is the thing that absolutely motivates the child's learning."

Ten years ago, a little boy with complex learning needs said he loved chickens.

The seven-year-old's passion inspired the school to introduce livestock.

"We started with two chickens," said Mrs Lawson. "This little boy was king of the chickens and taught everyone about them. That's how our allotment and farm grew."

Children now take it in turns to tend to chickens, goats, pigs, sheep, rabbit and 20 running ducks and grow their own fruit and vegetables.

Special outside visits and activities are also organised to broaden pupils' experience.

Children visit The Halle Orchestra every year, watch live ballet, visit the Houses of Parliament and see a West End Show.

"It is about providing opportunities so children can live, breathe and see new experiences," said Mrs Lawson. "We also work very closely with parents, they are our most treasured resource.

"We have events where parents come into school and learn alongside children. We also have science evenings when parents can take part in different experiments.

"Support from our families makes us able to do so much."

Barnton pupils celebrate their inclusion award with special needs co-ordinators Amy Thomson, left, and Bex Wieckowski

Grandparents read to pupils and residents from Essendene Care Home watch school performances and enjoy soup freshly made by children with produce from their allotment.

Local businesses including Roberts Bakery and Barclays Bank take part in inspirational days to raise aspirations.

Willows Vets, who tend the school's animals, talk to pupils about their careers. A pilot, actor and playwright are among the many different professionals who share their experiences with children.

"Our motto is 'If you can't see it, you can't be it'," said Mrs Lawson.

"We want to open their eyes to what they can see and what they can be. It is exciting. When you see that light bulb go off and children are absolutely inspired, you grab that moment and keep going with it."

Last week an eight-year-old girl asked if she could write a joke book.

"She is now asking every child in a school for a joke," said Mrs Lawson. "This will really encourage her tow rite and we will publish our own Barnton Joke Book.

"Whatever they ask, we're on it. It's all about building their confidence and self-esteem."

READ > Get your skates on as ice rink ushers in Christmas Extravaganza celebrations

Barnton was recognised as a Flagship School for Inclusion last year.

In 2015 the school became an Inclusion Quality Mark Centre of Excellence.

"So many schools are doing so many great things," added Mrs Lawson. "We are not the only school doing this. We share our inclusive approach with other schools and professionals."