Dewsbury school’s work to combat prejudice is recognised with national award

Eastborough Junior, Infant and Nursery School has been placed second in the annual Accord Inclusivity Award and is one of only four schools to be recognised this year.

The school already draws together a highly diverse intake, with 85% of its pupils speaking English as an additional language, with 16 first languages.

It drew widespread praise from the judging panel for its efforts in promoting respect and open-mindedness towards those of different religious and cultural backgrounds, and for empowering pupils to develop their own sense of identity through self-awareness and personal reflection.

The school was presented with its trophy by the chair of the Inclusivity Award judging panel, the Rev Stephen Terry, who joined the presentation assembly remotely.

Rev Stephen Terry said: “Eastborough School presents an excellent example of a school that has embedded inclusivity in its ethos and ways of working.

“The school has achieved this by broadening the horizons of pupils through the wide-ranging curriculum it provides.

The 2020 judges are delighted to recognise Eastborough as an example to others.”

Tracy Mahmood, said: “We feel very proud to receive this award. At Eastborough School we pride ourselves on being one big inclusive family.

“Our staff and children take part in a variety of activities to help understand our community better and promote kindness and fairness.

“It is nice to have our efforts recognised.”