In a heartening initiative in West Yorkshire, two schools have joined forces to create a pioneering model for inclusion of students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Field Lane Primary and Highbury School, located in Rastrick, are embracing a unique co-location strategy that not only enriches the educational experience for their pupils but also fosters a culture of understanding and empathy among all students.
A New Beginning for Two Schools
The day at Field Lane Primary begins with the joyful chatter of children in the playground, soon complemented by the arrival of minibuses transporting SEND students from the nearby Highbury School. This innovative partnership, formed by the Polaris Multi Academy Trust and the local council, has led to an integrated learning environment that allows for the sharing of resources and expertise.
Previously, Field Lane had been struggling with declining enrolment, while Highbury faced a waiting list of eager students. The collaboration has created a thriving educational setting that prioritises the inclusion of SEND pupils in mainstream classrooms, echoing the government’s recent commitment to advancing inclusive education outlined in the Schools White Paper.
Bridging the Gap
As the school week progresses, one can observe the seamless blending of students from both schools. In one classroom, pupils at Field Lane are engrossed in learning about percentages, while just down the corridor, children from Highbury engage in a dynamic movement class guided by animated dinosaurs on a screen. This integration is not accidental; it stems from a deliberate effort to create an environment where students learn from each other.
Debbie Sweet, headteacher at Highbury School, explains, “We didn’t want to just rent a room. We sought a broader impact, and that’s how the idea of a co-located school emerged.” This approach has allowed them to harness the skills of specialist staff while promoting inclusive practices across the entire school community.
During break times and assemblies, students from both the mainstream and specialist sections come together. “The mainstream children are doing as much teaching as the adults,” Sweet notes. “They are showing them how to play, take turns, engage in conversation, and resolve conflicts.” This environment not only benefits SEND students but also cultivates empathy and understanding among their peers.
Parents Share Their Experiences
The response from parents has been overwhelmingly positive. Tiffany, whose daughter Mirren attends Field Lane, speaks highly of the school’s environment. “It’s a wonderful school; all four of my children have passed through here,” she shares. “Mirren has formed great friendships with the children who have come in. We’re all part of society, and starting this integration early offers a better understanding of the real world.”
Chelsea, mother to Tilly, who previously struggled in a mainstream setting, echoes this sentiment. “We moved Tilly to Highbury, and she’s flourishing. It’s fantastic for her to interact with mainstream children, and it also teaches them about children with additional needs.”
Steve Evans, the chief executive of Polaris Multi Academy Trust, is optimistic about the initiative’s future. “With support from local authorities and funding from Polaris, we’re witnessing an increase in enrolment at Field Lane. The joy among the children and the collaborative spirit among the staff is truly remarkable.”
A Commitment to the Future
As the school day unfolds, the sight of children from both streams returning to class together is a testament to the success of this initiative. “It takes commitment and time,” Sweet concludes. “But we are dedicated to this vision, and we’re not going anywhere.”
This innovative approach stands as a beacon of hope for other institutions considering similar strategies to enhance SEND inclusion in their communities.
Why it Matters
The collaboration between Field Lane Primary and Highbury School illustrates a vital shift in how educational institutions can create inclusive environments. As the government pushes for more inclusive practices, this model serves as a powerful example of how schools can work together to ensure that every child, regardless of their needs, has the opportunity to thrive. By fostering understanding and empathy from an early age, we pave the way for a more inclusive society, where differences are celebrated and every student feels valued.
