Exeter Whipton Barton Federation wins prestigious national award

Whipton Barton Federation has been awarded the IQM Inclusive School Award and recognised as an IQM Centre of Excellence, highlighting its outstanding commitment to inclusive education for every child and family. 

The national accolade celebrates the school’s dedication to fostering a welcoming, ambitious, and supportive environment across all aspects of school life.

The award followed a detailed review of the school’s inclusive provision, which recognised that inclusion at Whipton Barton goes beyond supporting pupils with special educational needs. 

The school’s approach extends to children with English as an Additional Language, strong family engagement, community partnerships, and a culture that encourages all pupils to thrive.

The IQM assessor praised the school for treating inclusion as an evolving, “living process,” evident in its teaching, leadership, pastoral care, and collaboration with families. 

The report highlighted the school’s commitment to ensuring every pupil feels a sense of belonging while aspiring to achieve their full potential.

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Achieving Centre of Excellence status places Whipton Barton Federation among an elite network of schools nationwide that share best practice and innovate in inclusive education. 

Members of the network collaborate through cluster groups, professional development sessions, and dialogue that allows schools to continually refine their approach to equity and inclusion.

As part of its recognition, Whipton Barton has developed a Centre of Excellence action plan focused on strengthening inclusive teaching, expanding community partnerships, and sharing expertise with other schools.

Executive Headteacher Louise Moretta said: “We are incredibly proud to receive this recognition because it reflects the values that guide our school every day. Inclusion at Whipton Barton is not a policy on a page.”

“It is a commitment to every child and every family, and it shapes the way we teach, support, and work together as a community.”

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust, which oversees the federation, added: “Whipton Barton Federation is a school that lives its values.”

“The team places inclusion at the heart of everything they do and always put children first. We are extremely proud to see their hard work and expertise recognised with this national award.”