By Lucy and Jonathan Coy | HeadteacherChat | 9 June 2025
Why Inclusion Matters to Us
At HeadteacherChat, our commitment to inclusion and belonging is rooted in a fundamental belief that every child - regardless of background, ability, or circumstance, deserves an educational experience where they are truly seen, valued, and empowered.
For us, inclusion is not about ticking boxes. It is about cultivating a culture where diversity is respected, barriers to learning are actively dismantled, and every pupil feels psychologically safe and connected within their school community. This is not an add-on; it is the foundation of effective, compassionate education.
With that mindset, we stepped into Belgrave St Bartholomew’s Academy’s Academy full of energy and excitement for the day ahead. This wasn’t going to be just another CPD session. It was clear from the outset that this would be a catalyst for genuine transformation, and it didn’t disappoint.
We were joined by a dynamic and passionate group of educators, united by one powerful conviction: inclusion must sit at the heart of everything we do. The conversations were thoughtful, grounded in real-world practice, and driven by a shared urgency to do better for every child.
Inclusion Isn’t a Checklist
George and the team started the day with a powerful message. Inclusion isn’t something you tick off - it’s something you live and breathe across the trust. Every decision, every classroom, every child. You could feel that this wasn’t just talk. It was rooted in experience and purpose. We weren’t just there to listen; we were there to be inspired - to help shape a future where every child truly belongs.
Technology That Makes a Difference
George and Ricky challenged us to look at the SAMR model differently. Not as a theory, but as a practical tool for inclusion. They showed us how tech, used thoughtfully, can transform learning, not just replace old methods.
Using ideas from Edgar Dale’s Cone of Learning, Ricky reminded us that pupils remember more when they’re actively involved. Tools like voice notes, video reflections, and peer feedback weren’t just “nice extras” for some - they were open to ALL, and gave them ownership of their learning.
Stories That Stuck With Us
Pupils spoke about resilience, identity, and pride in ways that made it impossible to ignore the impact of true inclusion.
These weren’t just good stories, they were proof. When children feel seen and heard, inclusion comes to life.
Inclusion in Action: A Look Around the Classroom
The classroom tour was inspirational. Here’s what we saw:
- Pupils using iPads alongside workbooks to complete and reflect on their learning
- EVERY child was achieving their very best work, with no barriers to their learning, despite the high levels of needs in some classrooms
- Happy, confident children all completing their work and highly engaged
From Inspiration to Action
The afternoon was all about taking what we’d seen and turning it into something we could use. George and Ricky guided thoughtful, inspirational, practical conversations:
- “Are we starting with why, not just what?”
- “What really matters?”
- “How do we build the best curriculum for our school, and support staff wellbeing?”
By the end, we all had clear, realistic next steps ready to try, tweak, and share.
The Impact? Clear and Measurable
What we saw wasn’t just feel-good - it was backed by results:
- Time savings for staff,
- Big reductions in time spent printing and paperwork, let alone the financial savings made from less paper waste, resources and glue sticks!
- Pupils showing more independence, confidence, and contentment.
This is what sustainable, impactful inclusion looks like.
What Stays With Us
- Inclusion isn’t a one-off - it’s a culture.
- Technology works best when it has purpose, and is systematically introduced for all the right reasons.
- Sharing what works is how we grow together.
What’s Next?
The day might be over, but the journey isn’t. Here’s what comes next:
- Let’s stay connected – I’ll be following up to hear how your ideas on how you tackle inclusion are taking shape.
- Let’s talk – How are you putting inclusion into action? What role is tech playing in your school? Come and chat in the HeadteacherChat School Leader Community.
Thank You Belgrave St Bartholomew’s Academy Trust!
A heartfelt thank you to Lisa, Lisa, George, Ricky, the whole Belgrave team, and everyone who took part. Your leadership was thoughtful, practical, and full of hope. This wasn’t just CPD. It was a model for what inclusive education can be.
Let’s keep the momentum going. Share what you’re doing, ask questions, pass it on. We’re only just getting started.
Lucy and Jonathan,
Co-Founders HeadteacherChat
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