A Suffolk academy has been nationally recognised for its excellence in special educational needs provision.

Ormiston Sudbury Academy achieved the SENDIA SEND Inclusion Award for its rigorous commitment to inclusion and diversity.

This is a testament to the academy's ongoing dedication to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

The award commends the academy's exceptional commitment to understanding each child's needs, and the strategies implemented to overcome barriers.

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Assessors cited the "strong strategic and operational leadership of SEND…which has built and established a strong culture in supporting pupils with SEND" within the academy.

In achieving this award, the academy has also been praised for its innovative pupil surgeries.

These meetings connect all staff involved in a pupil's education with the director of Inclusion, Kelly Jacques.

Together, they share ideas and best practices, identifying ways forward.

The academy staff were retrospectively celebrated as "an important and valued part of the school’s SEND provision and valued as equal partners."

Dominic Howkins, Vice Principal, SENDCO, said: “Everyone at Ormiston Sudbury Academy holds a clear commitment to fostering an inclusive culture where diversity is celebrated, and every student is valued for their unique strengths and abilities.

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"We are so proud that this passion has been recognised with this award and look forward to celebrating this success with our whole school community."

“We are excited to expand upon these strong foundations to ensure that every student has access to inclusive education and the best possible opportunities, as part of empowering all our learners to reach their fullest potential.”

Continued advancement of these provisions ensures every pupil's academic, social, and emotional growth remains a priority.