'Everybody's welcome at our award-winning school'

That is why the inspirational primary school has just been declared one of only eight winners of the Inclusion Quality Mark National Champions Award.  The inaugural award, presented to Barton Hill Academy, was open to schools who carry inclusion flagship status, an accolade the school has held for over ten years.
The honour acknowledges the excellent and inclusive practice of the academy in creating a welcoming school where diversity is cherished and celebrated.
The award also recognises the extraordinary work the school continues to achieve through its work with other schools both within the local authority and Academies Enterprise Trust  to spread the powerful message of inclusion not only across the UK, but also internationally.
Joe McCann, CEO of IQM extended his congratulations to Barton Hill Academy and the other seven winners. He said: “These eight schools exemplify everything IQM stands for.  We are looking forward to working with each of you over the next 12 months to help share and promote inclusivity in schools all over the country.”
He added that he was astounded with the number and quality of entries submitted. 
He said: “We received entries from right across the UK and we would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who took the time to enter.  We admire your passion when it comes to inclusion and the creativity you showed in creating some amazing videos. We can’t wait to see what you do next.”
The Barton Hill Inclusion team will be presenting to audiences at both regional and national conferences over the next year to share the incredible innovative practice and expertise that has benefited the Barton community for many years.  
Principal Sam Smith said: "It is our vision that, through excellent specialist teaching and a strong knowledge-based curriculum, we facilitate ambitious academic outcomes and progress for all, regardless of starting points.  We look forward to welcoming colleagues in inclusion to our school and are proud to embrace our national champion status.”
Angela Farrell, who is Inclusion Lead and Assistant Head, said: “This award is a testament to our moral imperative to ensure that every pupil at Barton Hill Academy makes outstanding progress in all areas of the curriculum and school life. Barton Hill doesn’t make excuses. We find solutions and we lead change. All staff go the extra mile to make sure every child is given the chance to succeed and thrive.”