Inclusion Policy
Our ‘SENCO’ is Jane Rance
In the U K today we have a diverse multicultural society. At Groombridge Pre-School we accept children from many different races and cultures, speaking many different languages and children with special educational needs or impairments. We believe this rich mix of children has many positive effects for them.
Aims
We hope to provide an inclusive environment where the children can learn:
A model for life of caring and considering the needs of others and offering help where appropriate.
An environment where every individual is valued.
All the children can be involved in activities and enjoy playing and learning together, all equal.
The practitioners are caring and respectful to all the children and families so they feel safe and secure.
To recognise that some children need more support than others, giving them the confidence and knowledge that support is available for all if required.
Understand that some people can do more than others, or do things in a different way, this is acceptable and respected.
To educate the children that there is a wider world with different languages, beliefs and customs and that all are equally acceptable.
Show the children how to value each other by giving a positive example and through being in a positive environment.
The diversity of individuals and communities is valued and respected. No Child or family is discriminated against. We recognise that not all families have the same structure.
Parents from other countries or cultures are encouraged to come in and tell us about their homeland, food and customs. If applicable we learn a few simple greetings in their language too so we can meet and greet them each day and make them feel valued. We see children from different backgrounds as a resource not a problem with the children bringing their festivals to the setting enriching it and making it a truly multi ethnic, cultural and linguistic community where all children bring something valuable to the setting and are recognised and valued as a whole and not seen as ‘decorative additions’. All the children will build their self-esteem and ensuring their well-being.
In an inclusive environment the children have greater learning opportunities such as listening to a greater range of music, tasting different foods, experiencing different art forms other than their own. This broadens their minds making them more accepting of others and helps them be more creative.
To ensure this can happen we have an Equal Opportunities Policy and a Special Educational Needs Policy.
Information, written and spoken, will be clearly communicated in as many languages as necessary.
This policy is known, agreed and implemented by all staff.
This policy is known and made available to all parents.
This policy was reviewed February 2011.