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Inclusion at our School

Inclusion is central to our school’s values. We believe every child deserves to feel safe, valued, and supported to achieve their full potential. We are committed to creating a welcoming environment where all pupils – regardless of background, need, or ability – can learn and thrive.

We recognise that pupils learn in different ways and may need varying levels of support. Our approach is built on equity, respect, and high expectations for every learner.

Our Commitment

  • High‑quality, accessible teaching for all
  • A culture of belonging where every pupil is valued
  • Strong partnerships with parents, carers, and external professionals
  • Early identification and targeted support
  • Promoting diversity, respect, and understanding
  • Removing barriers to ensure equal access for every pupil

Our Aim

We aim to build confident, independent, and resilient learners. Through an inclusive culture, we prepare pupils to succeed in a diverse and ever‑changing world.

SEND (Special Educational Needs & Disabilities)

The SENCOs at Whalley Range 11–18 High School are Mrs S Zarar and Mrs A McDonald.

Our Inclusion Faculty is a highly experienced team who work with students with a wide range of needs. We support students from Year 7 to Year 13, helping them to make strong progress and move on to successful pathways beyond school. Support is tailored to each student, based on their individual needs.

The Learning Zone

The Learning Zone is our Inclusion provision, offering a nurturing environment for students who may need short‑term, bespoke support before fully reintegrating into all lessons. It is staffed by skilled practitioners who provide personalised support for students experiencing a range of difficulties.

Sensory Room

We have recently developed a Sensory Room within the Learning Zone to offer a calm, safe space where students can regulate and refocus.

Interventions

Our team delivers a range of targeted interventions, including:

  • Social skills groups
  • After‑school homework support
  • Literacy support
  • Numeracy support

Parent Support

We hold a Parent Forum each half term, with a particular focus on supporting parents of neurodiverse children. We are also supported by a local parent group who attend each session to offer guidance, share experiences, and signpost families to additional support services.

Working with External Agencies

We work closely with a range of external professionals, including:

  • Educational Psychologists
  • Speech & Language Therapists
  • Manchester Sensory Support Service
  • CAMHS

These partnerships help us to ensure that students receive the most effective, specialist support available.


Please follow the link to our policies page (where you’ll find our SEND policy) and our SEND information report.


EAL (English as an Additional Language)

We offer a comprehensive induction programme for students who are new to English. Learners are supported in our EAL Hub, where they receive lessons from an experienced specialist teacher to help develop their language skills. As students transition into mainstream lessons, teachers use adaptive strategies to further support English language acquisition.

To support families, we hold an EAL Parent Forum each term. This provides an opportunity for parents to share experiences, ask questions, and learn more about how to support their child.

As part of our options process, we also offer an ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) qualification. This course helps students develop their reading, writing, speaking and listening skills while gaining a recognised qualification.

Quality Marks, Awards & Affiliations

We strive for excellence and are very proud of our achievements and affiliations.

If you believe something is missing or should be removed from the list below, please let us know.

Pearson National Teaching Awards Silver Winner logo School Games Platinum Award 2023/24 - 2024/25 logo Educate Awards Winner 2019 logo The Duke of Edinburgh logo School Achievement Award logo Basic Skills Quality Mark logo Whalley Range Sixth Form logo