Inclusion Innovation Funding Secured

We are thrilled to announce that The Keys Academy Trust has secured a £25,000 grant from Wokingham Borough Council’s Inclusion Innovation Fund (IIF). This funding will enable the creation of dedicated  spaces in seven of our schools, tailored to support pupils with SEMH or SEND needs. This initiative is a significant step forward in promoting inclusivity and mental wellbeing within our school community.

The Trust’s project aligns with the IIF’s theme, which focuses on developing inclusive education provisions to support pupils experiencing emotional or social challenges that may affect their ability to thrive in a traditional classroom setting. By establishing inclusion hubs in each school, our goal is to create safe, calming environments where pupils can develop emotional resilience, receive nurturing support, and ultimately improve their engagement and attendance.

Each school will designate and equip a dedicated space with sensory tools and furniture, carefully chosen to address the specific needs of their pupils. The Trust has worked closely with SEND Coordinators from each school to ensure the resources will be used effectively, from sensory lights and audio equipment to balance pods and soft play areas.

Alongside the physical spaces, the funding will support specialised training sessions for our staff, led by Behaviour Analyst Michelle Underwood from Unique Inclusion. These sessions will equip our educators with the skills needed to create regulatory environments, understand pupils' individual needs, and apply therapeutic approaches that support pupils to effectively access education.

The project is expected to bring about transformative changes, including increased attendance and an overall improvement in pupils' well-being and academic outcomes. By investing in early intervention and fostering a culture of inclusion, The Keys Academy Trust aims to provide sustainable, positive experiences for our most vulnerable pupils.

This initiative has been made possible through the generous support of Wokingham Borough Council, and we extend our thanks for their commitment to fostering inclusive educational environments.