EMBRACING INCLUSION: How mainstream school can and should be for everyone

The significance of an inclusive mainstream education cannot be overstated. The ability of practitioners to meet diverse needs in a way that allows all children to participate fully in the academic and social aspects of school and college life benefits not only children with learning disabilities and additional needs, but also their peers, teachers, and the broader community. In fact, it is a critical component of building an equitable and compassionate society.

Ahead of our webinar on 10 October – which explores the theme of supporting learners with Down Syndrome and other learning disabilities in the mainstream classroom – we take a look at how inclusion done well reaps rewards for everyone…

Social Development and Empathy

One of the most profound benefits of inclusive education is its impact on social development. For children with learning disabilities – as with any other child – the opportunity to form meaningful friendships, build social skills, and learn to navigate different social scenarios is invaluable for personal development and helps build a sense of belonging and self-worth.

But the benefits do not end there. Inclusive education also fosters empathy and understanding. From a young age, children are taught to appreciate diversity and to recognise and value the strengths and potential in everyone. This mutual understanding creates a culture of acceptance and reduces the stigma often associated with learning disabilities.

Academic Benefits for all Students

In addition to the social benefits, children with SEND will often benefit academically from an inclusive setting and – with appropriate support – will reach their full potential. Exposure to the mainstream curriculum creates positive challenge and promotes higher expectations for their academic success.

We know that learners – with or without SEND – don’t all learn in the same way, and teachers need to employ a range of approaches to accommodate various preferences and needs. By tapping into the full gambit of teaching strategies, overall engagement and academic performance is enhanced.

Enhanced Teaching Skills and Collaboration

One of the most impactful experiences for learners is to have access to high quality, inclusive teaching. Where focus is placed on removing barriers to learning, getting to know and understand individual learners, and bringing to life the graduated approach, a significant proportion of needs can be met.

To do this fully, teachers are required to adapt and innovate. As we say in the Teacher Handbook: SEND, “It’s as much about a mindset as a skillset.”.

Moreover, since inclusive education promotes collaboration among educators, specialists, and families, much is gained from the teamwork involved in enriching the learning environment so that all students receive comprehensive support.

Preparation for Adulthood

If children and young people grow up in a bubble where they only see reflections of themselves in the people who surround them, how do we prepare them for the diversity found in the real world? And how do we teach them empathy? Or the inclusive behaviours that underpin a fair and civil society?

By learning together, children with and without learning disabilities gain a better understanding of how to interact and collaborate with individuals with different strengths and needs. This experience prepares them for future workplaces and communities that value difference and inclusion and give everyone the opportunity to succeed.