A NORTHWICH primary academy has retained its flagship status as one of Cheshire's most inclusive schools.

For the fifth year in a row, Rudheath Primary Academy and Nursery has kept its Inclusion Quality Mark (IQM) Flagship status.

The school, off Gadbrook Road, hopes to further its work around inclusion through internal research activities.

To retain its flagship status, the academy developed an outline for classroom-based research project, which will help build on the inclusive practices already at the school.

Andrew Ross, principal at Rudheath Primary Academy, said: “We are extremely proud that our school continues to be a flagship school.

"We encourage all parents to come and see how the report is lived out each day in our school.”

IQM delivered a report in November which outlined the school had demonstrated a continued commitment to supporting others through active membership in its 'Inclusive Allsorts Cluster'.

As part of the project, the school introduced toddler group sessions each week.

This is reported to have led to more open conversations; a greater willingness for parents to engage with school; staff able to model play in the environment; and support the adults or carers who attend with their children which, in turn, has led to a greater sense of community across the whole school.

Emma Kamran, special educational needs coordinator at the school, added: "This report would not have been possible without the engagement and dedication of our staff and parents. 

"The report strongly reflects what happens at our school on a daily basis."

IQM was established in the UK in October 2004 with the objective of supporting both state and independent schools to become inclusive.