Celebrating national recognition for Clare's leadership of Inclusion
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We are absolutely delighted to celebrate an exciting achievement for our Deputy Headteacher, Clare Haines, whose work has been published this week in Headteacher Update, one of the UK's leading publications for school leaders. In her article, Clare shares her thinking on the forthcoming SEND reforms and how they present an opportunity for schools to think differently about inclusion, belonging and opportunity for every child.
Celebrating Excellence at Fielding
Many parents will know Clare through her leadership of inclusion across the school. Over several years, she has helped shape Fielding's approach to ensuring that every child feels valued, supported and able to thrive, regardless of their starting point or individual needs.
Her article reflects the thinking that underpins our work every day at Fielding. Rather than focusing solely on systems, labels or provision, Clare encourages schools to ask bigger questions: Do children feel they belong? Are they able to participate fully in school life? Is every child given a voice? Are we creating opportunities for all children to succeed?
What Are the SEND Reforms?
The Government is continuing to develop reforms to the special educational needs (SEND) system, with a focus on improving outcomes for children and young people with additional needs. Across the country, schools are considering what these changes may mean for pupils, families and staff.
At Fielding, we see this as an opportunity to strengthen our inclusive practice even further. Our aim is not simply to respond to policy changes, but to ensure that every child, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, disadvantaged pupils, and those facing other barriers, experiences a genuine sense of belonging and success.
Our Approach
One of the key messages in Clare's article is that schools should avoid rushing into creating new systems before understanding what is already working well for children.
That principle is already guiding our work at Fielding. We are carefully reviewing our existing strengths, listening to pupils, families and staff, and considering how we can continue to build a school where inclusion is everyone's responsibility.
This reflects our core values of respect, resilience, reflection and empathy. We believe that inclusion is not the work of one team or one department. It is woven through every classroom, every curriculum decision, every playtime and every interaction.
Congratulations, Clare!
We are incredibly proud that Clare's expertise has been recognised nationally. The publication of her article is not only a personal achievement, but also a reflection of the thoughtful, ambitious and compassionate approach to inclusion that we are developing together at Fielding.
As our journey towards the SEND reforms continues, Clare will be sharing further reflections and insights. We look forward to keeping our community updated and working together to ensure that every child at Fielding feels they belong, participates fully and has the opportunity to flourish.
Read her thoughts and article:
- SEND reform is not simply a SEND project – it's an opportunity to rethink #inclusion, belonging, participation, voice & opportunity for every child. School leader Clare Haines gives us a glimpse into her thinking as she prepares for reform: https://www.headteacher-update.com/content/best-practice/send-reform-rethinking-inclusion-belonging-schools
Peter Dunmall
October 2026