5 days ago
The inclusive primary school in New Eltham shortlisted for national award
A primary school in New Eltham has been shortlisted for a prestigious national award.
Wyborne Primary and Nursery School is in the running for the TES Inclusive School of the Year Award 2025.
This national accolade celebrates schools that are leaders in inclusive education.
The shortlisting recognises Wyborne's continuing commitment to creating a learning environment where every child is valued, supported, and given the chance to succeed.
Headteacher James Searjeant said: "We are absolutely thrilled to be shortlisted for the TES Inclusive School of the Year.
"This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our incredible staff and the strength of our whole school community.
"Inclusion is not a bolt-on at Wyborne, it is at the core of our school.
"Every child is seen, supported, and celebrated.
"This nomination is a moment of pride for us all and reflects our belief that every child deserves to glow."
The 'glow' project (Image: Wyborne Primary School)
The school's ethos is shaped by five core values: empathy, empowerment, curiosity, collaboration, and champion.
These values influence every aspect of school life and help to create a culture where every child is acknowledged, respected, and celebrated for their individuality.
The school's nomination is the result of several key initiatives that demonstrate its inclusive approach.
These include the Museum of Everything, which enhances learning through immersive, real-world experiences, and the use of Continuous Provision in Year 1, which encourages independent exploration and child-led learning.
The 'Museum of Everything' room (Image: Wyborne Primary School)
The school also emphasises an inclusive and purposeful curriculum design, ensuring that learning is meaningful and accessible to all pupils.
Other notable features include an onsite Forest School for early years and Year 1, designed to promote hands-on learning and emotional development, as well as a therapy dog, sensory room, and dedicated therapeutic spaces that support wellbeing and inclusion.
Rupert, the 'school therapy dog' (Image: Wyborne Primary School)
A comprehensive Teaching and Learning Toolkit equips staff with the strategies and resources they need to adapt their practice to meet the diverse needs of all learners.
Inclusion at Wyborne extends beyond classroom teaching.
Pupil voice is a driving force for positive change across the school.
The school logo (Image: Wyborne Primary School)
Recent student-led initiatives have included the formation of Inclusion Ambassadors and projects that encourage understanding and celebration of neurodiversity, identity, and equality.
Children are actively encouraged to participate in shaping their school community and to use their voices to make a difference.
As the school looks ahead to the TES Awards ceremony in June, there is a clear sense of pride and determination to continue building a school community that nurtures confident, compassionate learners ready to contribute positively to society.
Wyborne is one of several schools in south-east London to be recognised in this year's awards.
Kingsdale Foundation School in West Dulwich has also been shortlisted for Inclusive School of the Year, while Rosemead Preparatory School and Nursery and St Dunstan's College have received nominations in the independent school categories.
Oasis Academy South Bank is a contender for Secondary School of the Year, and Kingsdale Foundation School in Southwark is also recognised for Subject Lead of the Year (Secondary).
The TES Schools Awards, now in their sixteenth year, celebrate excellence in education across both the state and independent sectors in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
A spokesperson for the awards said the event brings together schools from across the sector to highlight outstanding achievements in teaching and learning.
Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on Friday, June 20 in London, hosted by comedian and television presenter Tom Allen.
Well known for his work on The Apprentice: You're Fired, Cooking With The Stars, and Bake Off: An Extra Slice, Allen is set to bring his signature humour and energy to the evening.
For Wyborne Primary and Nursery School, the shortlisting marks a significant milestone and a well-deserved recognition of its unwavering dedication to inclusive education.
