Inclusion Strategy Development: Session one and two 5 and 23 November 2026

During the summer break, the DfE launched guidance related to the development of school inclusion strategies. The guidance states that by 31 December 2026, all schools will be required to publish an inclusion strategy setting out how Inclusion Mainstream Funding and core funding, including notional SEN funding, will be used to support inclusion. To support you in responding to these requirements, we are inviting you to a two-part development session which are designed to help develop high-quality inclusion strategies.

This programme will provide an opportunity for headteachers and school leaders to consider the national guidance and explore practical tools to develop an evidence-informed strategy that reflects the needs of their setting. The sessions will support leaders to identify key barriers to inclusion, develop a clear vision, explore effective practice, and plan for successful implementation, monitoring and evaluation.

The training will be delivered by Laura Spence and Jenn Sills (GLA and Gloucestershire Research School) in partnership with the local authority. It will be based on the five-step model and will draw on the Education Endowment Foundation’s implementation framework to help schools move from strategic planning to sustainable practice. Schools will also have the opportunity to work collaboratively with colleagues, share emerging priorities and contribute to a wider county-wide understanding of inclusion across Gloucestershire.

Session 1: Establishing the Foundations
This session will cover the current requirements for inclusion strategies, support schools to develop a vision for inclusion, introduce the five-step model, and help leaders identify barriers and priorities within their own setting.

Between the two sessions, participants will complete a short gap task focused on identifying barriers to inclusion in their own school and beginning to populate the inclusion strategy framework.