Doorway 6: Inclusion & Participation

The principles of inclusion and participation are central to British society and intrinsic to the DCSF’s vision for sustainable schools.

Community cohesion depends on valuing difference and diversity, instilling respect for different cultures and beliefs, and creating an atmosphere that values everyone’s contribution.

The government recognises that most schools are already firmly committed to equality and diversity but ministers are still encouraging them to do more to foster inclusive behaviour across the whole school community.

The law, which changed on 11th November 2008, now places a duty on all maintained schools in England and Wales to consider the views of pupils on a range of issues from curriculum to uniform, school food to health and safety, and equality to sustainability.

Involving pupils in decision-making on sustainable issues is extremely important as it not only teaches them valuable life skills but also encourages them to take responsibility for the life of the school and engages their parents with development initiatives too.

This section looks at some of the other ways in which schools can encourage an ethos of inclusion and participation. In these pages, the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) explains why schools need to work with local people to create sustainable communities, the National Rebound Therapy Consultancy discusses how Rebound Therapy encourages participation amongst students with a wide variety of special needs, and YSD4Kids explain how well designed school interiors can create inclusive and motivating learning environments.

In This Section

ASCL (Association of School and College Leaders) - Creating Sustainable Communities
The ASCL (Association of School and College Leaders) explores the challenges that schools face on the road to sustainability and explains why schools need to work with their communities to achieve their sustainable schools targets.

National Rebound Therapy Consultancy - Inclusion Opportunities for SEN Students
Eddy Anderson and Paul Kaye, founders of the National Rebound Therapy Consultancy explain the benefits that Rebound Therapy can bring to students regardless of their age or ability.

YSD4Kids - Creating Inspirational Classrooms
Interior Design specialists YSD4Kids explain how well-designed classrooms can have a positive impact on pupils’ learning, motivation and achievement.