RUDHEATH Primary Academy principal Andrew Ross has his sights set on Flagship status for his school.

Mr Ross announced his ambition after receiving a Centre of Excellence accolade for the school at a ceremony in London.

Rudheath Primary Academy applied for the Inclusion Quality Mark, but assessors judged the school to be so good they granted it Centre of Excellence status – a step above the Quality Mark.

Mr Ross, and Jane Thomas, who leads the inclusion team, were praised for the way the school supports all its children.

No pupil at the school is labelled by ability, the school has a comprehensive inclusion policy and staff believe every child has unique capabilities.

In their report the Inclusion Quality Mark assessors particularly praised the school’s Early Years teaching.

They said: “The Early Years area has been extensively renovated and provides high-quality inclusive areas.

“To ensure there is more space for children playtimes have been split so the children have more room in which to play.

“There is a room to support children with emotional and social needs which is used during playtimes and throughout the day. ‘Playtime Pals’ are encouraged to support others with their play and are responsible for the play equipment.”

The report praised school innovations including the IRIS Connect system, a video camera tool where teachers can study their own lessons, and the IDL Cloud, which uses sight, sound and touch to support children with dyslexia.

The school employs an Emotional Literary Support Assistant who deals with issues including behaviour, bereavement, friendship problems and sleep issues.

The inclusion team supports any child and family who are facing difficulties out of school, and the school was also praised for its safeguarding policy and effective use of social media.

Speaking after receiving the award, Mr Ross said his ambition was to take Rudheath to the ultimate status of a Flagship School within three years.

He said: “This is a great accolade for our school. We were confident the inclusivity we have nurtured encourages all pupils to succeed, but to be recognised in this way, following such a rigorous assessment, is a huge boost.

“I’d like to say thank you to all the staff, pupils, governors and parents who have worked so hard over the last two years – particularly Ms Thomas, who collated the evidence for our assessment and the parents who volunteered to talk to the assessor on the day.”