Richmond Primary School has been recognised with the Inclusion Quality Mark (IQM) Inclusive School Award and IQM Centre of Excellence status, celebrating its exceptional commitment to inclusion, belonging and ensuring every child is empowered to thrive.
Assessed in July 2026, the report described Richmond as a school where “opportunities are expanded rather than restricted, aspirations are raised rather than limited and barriers are addressed rather than accepted” recognising the school’s unwavering commitment to removing barriers, raising aspirations and expanding opportunities for every child.
Throughout the assessment, Richmond was praised for creating a culture where inclusion is not viewed as an initiative or a separate aspect of school improvement, but as the lens through which every decision is made. The assessor noted that the school’s HEART values – Happiness, Engagement, Ambition, Respect and Togetherness – are not simply displayed, but lived through every interaction, relationship and decision across the school.
Headteacher Lesley Conway said:
“We are incredibly proud to achieve both the IQM Inclusive School Award and Centre of Excellence status. This recognition reflects the dedication of our staff, children and families in creating a school where every child feels valued, supported and able to achieve their very best. Inclusion is at the heart of everything we do and we are committed to ensuring all children have the opportunities they deserve.”
The assessor highlighted Richmond’s inspirational leadership, strong culture of belonging and unwavering belief in children’s potential. The report recognised the school’s determination to ensure that pupils are not defined by their starting points, but by the opportunities they are given to succeed.
A particular strength identified during the assessment was the school’s inclusive approach to teaching and learning. The assessor praised how staff adapt learning environments, resources and teaching strategies to meet individual needs whilst maintaining high expectations for every child. The report described the school’s philosophy as adapting the environment to meet the needs of the child, rather than expecting the child to adapt to the environment.
The school’s innovative use of technology was also recognised throughout the report. As a Microsoft Showcase School, Richmond was praised for using digital tools purposefully to remove barriers to learning, promote independence and enable pupils to participate confidently in their education.
Children spoke enthusiastically about their school and the strong sense of belonging they experience.
One Year 6 pupil said:
“Happy brains, happy hearts, we stick together, these are our values.”
The report highlighted the calm, respectful culture found throughout the school, where strong relationships between pupils, staff and families underpin both wellbeing and academic success. The assessor also recognised Richmond’s improvements in attendance and reductions in suspensions, noting the positive impact of the school’s inclusive and relational approach.
Parents spoke warmly about the support provided by the school and the strength of relationships between home and school.
One parent described Richmond as:
“The values are not a display thing, they are taken home; you can see it and feel it.”
Another parent commented:
“Staff know their children and their parents.”
The assessor concluded that Richmond Primary School is:
“an inclusive school in the truest sense” and recognised the school’s commitment to equity, aspiration and opportunity for all. The report noted that Richmond’s inclusive practice places it among schools demonstrating excellence in inclusive education and recognised its capacity to influence practice beyond its own community.
Richmond now joins Chilmington Green Primary School, Lansdowne Primary School and Sturry CE Primary School in achieving both the IQM Inclusive School Award and IQM Centre of Excellence status this academic year. Together, these awards reflect the deeply embedded culture of inclusion across The Stour Academy Trust and a shared commitment to ensuring every child feels safe, valued, supported and able to succeed.
The Inclusion Quality Mark is a national framework that celebrates schools which foster a culture of inclusion, where every child is valued, supported and empowered to thrive. Achieving both the Inclusive School Award and Centre of Excellence status demonstrates that Richmond Primary School not only meets, but exceeds, the standards of an inclusive, ambitious and forward-thinking school community.
You can read the full report on Richmond’s website:
