Inclusion
Inclusion is not just a policy.
It is a practice that requires continuous commitment and effort.
MSB’s dedication to inclusivity is a shared passion across our entire organization. Our school community is committed to fostering an environment that embraces diversity and ensures the well-rounded development of each student.
We warmly welcome children with a diverse range of learning preferences, including students of determination—those with special education needs and disabilities. This encompasses individuals facing cognitive and learning challenges, communication and interaction barriers, as well as those with physical, sensory, medical, emotional, social, cultural, or language differences. Alongside them, we also celebrate and support students who demonstrate exceptional abilities, giftedness, and talents.
We ensure meeting these students’ needs in a way that is responsive, accepting, respectful, and supportive. Students participate in the education program in a common learning environment with support to diminish and remove barriers that may lead to exclusion.
Identifying the Needs
During student admissions, we begin with a thorough identification process to ensure that appropriate support is available from the beginning. For instance, a student with dyslexia might receive specific reading interventions right from the start.
We continue with ongoing identification and support through formal and informal screening and in-house testing. This is followed by comprehensive testing and the development of the Individualized Education Programme (IEP) as per the needs of the child. Inclusive provisions are offered in parallel with the regular curriculum by modifying learning objectives and outcomes alongside teaching methodologies. Individual needs are catered to by providing specific resources (e.g., specially-trained personnel, equipment, or space). For example, a child with physical disabilities might have access to adaptive physical education classes and specialized equipment.
Building an Inclusive Network
We believe a strong school and parent partnership is key to the success of the student. The relationship of trust we have with our parents enables all our students to thrive and develop the necessary independence skills.
We have regular parent consultations, both individual and group, parent meetings, and a comprehensive reporting cycle. Parent voice is sought, and an open-door policy is in place for the parents involved with the Inclusion Team. For example, parents of a child with learning difficulty or behavioural challenges might regularly meet with teachers and Learning Support Assistant to discuss progress and strategies.
Systematic Support
Ensuring a fully inclusive education system necessitates embedding sustainable and systematic support throughout every department of our school. At MSB, our dedicated Inclusion Support Team is composed of key personnel, including the Board of Governors, Senior Leadership Team, Head of Inclusion, Support Teachers, and Learning Support Assistants. Additionally, we collaborate with trained professional therapists who provide specialized assistance tailored to the needs of our students.
The primary goal of our Inclusion Support Team is to offer tailored assistance to students of determination and those who are gifted and talented. This collaborative effort with classroom teachers aims to ensure that all students achieve high levels of progress and success in their academic and personal development journeys. For instance, a gifted student might receive advanced coursework and mentorship opportunities to further develop their talents.
For more information about inclusion at MSB, read our Inclusion Policy.