Springwood Primary School in Cardiff has been officially recognised for its work to create an inclusive school community after it was awarded with an Inclusion Quality Mark and given centre of excellence status. 

In a letter to the school, Director of Inclusion Quality Mark (UK) Ltd, Joe McCann said: "This lively, happy school has inclusivity at its very heart. Everyone shares it and everyone appreciates it, from the parents who are getting involved in greater numbers every year, to the children who look after each other with care and skill, to the staff members who parents say give "over and above" and to the very top: a Headteacher whose principles are that every child deserves to be the best that they can be, supported by a quite outstanding Governing Body." 

Welcoming the recognition, Headteacher Mrs Pat Hoffer, said: "We know that we have something very special in Springwood. We are a happy, friendly school with inclusivity at the heart of everything we do. We were absolutely thrilled and proud that our hard work and focused improvement plans have been recognised through us achieving these prestigious awards. 

"We are a strong team and we are very well supported by an excellent Governing Body and parents. Everyone works tirelessly, with energy and enthusiasm - only the very best is good enough for our children. The journey continues, working with other schools, striving for excellence to ensure that our pupils have the very best and are well prepared for the future." 

Deputy Leader of Cardiff Council and Cabinet Member for Education, Employment and Skills, said: "Congratulations to everyone involved with Springwood Primary School. I was fortunate enough to visit the school before the summer holidays, and I got an instant impression of the fantastic ethos that Mrs Hoffer, the staff and Governing Body have instilled in the community. To have this work recognised with not only an Inclusion Quality Mark, but also centre of excellence status, is a great achievement and I am delighted for everyone that has played a part in this success." 

The staff and pupils at Springwood primary are also celebrating two further successes. It is one of only 10 schools to be given gold by the Geography Association this year. This latest success also means that Springwood primary joins just three other schools from across Britain to achieve the Primary Geography Quality Mark on four separate occasions. 

Geography Association judges commented that: "The teachers in these schools ensure that their planning, policies and practice maximise pupil learning and are not afraid to take risks, innovate and challenge to achieve progress in geography. The schools use creative approaches to stimulate learning and place high value on using real-life issues to promote understanding." 

Mrs Hoffer added: "The school is extremely proud of this achievement and recognises that Geography is the perfect vehicle to develop positive attitudes, and ethical, informed citizens. The world around us can fascinate and inspire children and young people. Through studying Geography they can become actively engaged with the issues relating to the wider world and sustainability."