Embedding Inclusion Across a Trust: How Enlighten Learning Trust Used the Surrey Inclusion Framework to Drive Change 

Enlighten Learning Trust (ELT) has taken a strategic step towards enhancing inclusive practice across its schools by adopting the Surrey Inclusion Framework. The Trust aimed to explore how this tool could be effectively implemented within a multi-academy setting to raise awareness of inclusion among staff and governors, define strengths and areas for improvement, and inform school development priorities. 

A Collaborative and Tailored Approach 

The pilot involved three infant and primary schools within the Trust. Headteachers were given the flexibility to decide how best to distribute the Inclusion Framework survey—some involved all staff, while others chose representative groups, including teaching assistants and administrative staff. This approach enabled a broad understanding of how inclusion was perceived across different roles in each school. 

Inclusion Leads introduced the project and guided staff through the process. Responses were collected electronically and jointly analysed by the Director of School Improvement and each school's Inclusion Lead. Key findings were then presented to staff and governors, sparking insightful discussions and identifying clear priorities for each school's development plan. 

Outcomes and Impact 

The outcomes of the initiative were significant. Staff and governors reported a greater understanding of the breadth of inclusive provision. Importantly, the process highlighted knowledge gaps, especially among support staff and governors, allowing leaders to better direct support and training. 

One governor remarked, "I now know what I don't know, and so I can ask the right questions and find out."

As a result of the pilot, ELT has made inclusion a core strategic focus for the next three years. All schools within the Trust are now required to embed inclusion as a strand within their development plans. A Trust-wide INSET day focused on inclusion was held, attended by staff, governors, and trustees. Additionally, a CPD conference series, sponsored by ACS, has been launched to continue supporting staff development. 

By using the Surrey Inclusion Framework in this collaborative and reflective way, Enlighten Learning Trust has built a shared understanding and commitment to creating inclusive environments across all of its schools. 

Find out more about self-evaluation and SAfE's Rethinking Inclusion offer here:

 

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