A SCHOOL in Bolton has been recognised for its inclusivity.

Prestolee Multi-Academy Trust has been given the Inclusion Quality, to demonstrate their welcoming nature. It is the IQM's second highest achievement and means Prestolee is now recognised as a centre of excellence.

An IQM spokesman said: “It is clear from the evidence submitted the school has a deeply embedded commitment to inclusive values and practice throughout the school.”

The school has a smaller than average number of ethnic minority and special educational needs students, which is something that can make an inclusive environment more difficult to foster

But the IQM official added: “Prestolee have bucked this trend by showing a high level of awareness around the potential vulnerability of minority groups and taking proactive steps to ensure that every child has a fair and equal access to a first-class education.”

Head Alex Keane, said: “Especially with everything thing that’s been going on with Covid we wanted to make sure our focus is on inclusion and this award validates our provision. It was a really thorough but rewarding process and it’s absolutely amazing to be awarded centre of excellence status. Now we can work with other centres to learn and grow together.

“The assessor could see his wasn’t about getting an award but continuing to do better. We’re a very committed group of staff and this is understood by everybody in the school.”