Our Approach to Inclusion

At Atlantic Academy, we believe that every child and young person deserves to feel valued, included and supported to succeed.

We believe that inclusion is not a place or a label — it is a culture. We celebrate what works, learn from challenges, and adapt with integrity.

Our commitment is to ensure that every student, regardless of need or background, experiences a high-quality education that builds confidence, independence, and a sense of pride in their learning.

As an all-through academy, from Reception to Year 11, we recognise that our pupils bring different strengths, experiences and needs to school. Our responsibility is to understand these differences, remove barriers to learning and participation, and ensure that every pupil has the opportunity to thrive.

Our approach is rooted in the Aspirations Academies Trust’s three guiding principles: Self-Worth, Engagement and Purpose. We want every pupil to develop confidence in themselves, feel connected to their school community and experience success throughout their education.

Inclusion Is Everyone’s Responsibility

Inclusion is not something that happens separately from everyday school life. It is central to our teaching, curriculum, relationships and expectations.

We believe that high-quality teaching is the foundation of inclusive education. Our teachers and support staff work together to understand pupils’ needs, adapt approaches where appropriate and maintain high aspirations for everyone.

Inclusion does not mean lowering expectations. It means providing the right support and opportunities so that every pupil can work towards achieving them.

Our Seven Principles of Inclusion

Our approach is guided by seven principles that help us create an ambitious, welcoming and accessible school environment.

1. Ambition for Every Pupil

We maintain high expectations for all pupils. Our leaders and staff share responsibility for ensuring that inclusion is considered in curriculum planning, teaching and wider school life.

2. Early Identification and Support

We work to recognise barriers to learning and participation early, using assessment, observation and communication with families to identify appropriate, evidence-informed support.

3. Inclusive Teaching and Curriculum

We use clear explanations, modelling, scaffolding and regular checks for understanding to help pupils access an ambitious curriculum, develop independence and make progress.

4. Opportunities for Everyone

We want pupils to benefit from the full experience of school life, including sport, the arts, educational visits, enrichment activities and our house system. We seek to remove barriers that might limit participation.

5. Belonging, Respect and Wellbeing

We promote positive relationships, a safe and respectful environment, and a strong sense of belonging. Our pastoral and inclusion teams support pupils’ wellbeing, attendance and engagement.

6. Working Together

We value strong partnerships with pupils, parents, carers and external professionals. By sharing information and listening to different perspectives, we can make better decisions about support.

7. Accessible Learning Environments

We consider the physical, sensory and communication needs of our pupils and make appropriate adjustments to help them participate confidently and safely in learning and school life.

The Right Support at the Right Time

We recognise that pupils may need different types of support at different stages of their education.

Our Inclusion and SEND Offer is organised around three flexible levels:

Universal Support — Inclusive teaching, positive relationships and appropriate adjustments that form part of everyday school life.

Targeted Support — Additional, planned interventions and adjustments for pupils who need more specific support.

Targeted Plus Support — Highly personalised, coordinated or specialist support for pupils with more complex or persistent needs.

These are not fixed categories. Pupils may receive different types of support at the same time, depending on their individual needs. A formal diagnosis or Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is not required to access appropriate additional support.

Explore our SEND & Additional Needs Offer to find out more.

Explore Our Inclusion Provision

Find out more about how we support pupils and families at Atlantic Academy.

Our Commitment

We want every pupil at Atlantic Academy to feel that they belong, experience success and develop the knowledge, confidence and independence to thrive.

High expectations. The right support. Opportunities for all.

Contact Our Inclusion Team

Inclusion