Dixons Cottingley Academy retained IQM Flagship school status

We are once again very proud to announce that as of September 2026, Dixons Cottingley Academy has retained our IQM Flagship school status.

One of only a handful in the UK, we have been recognised for our leading work in inclusion across our academy, providing research and leading on this across a network of schools.

Quotes from the report are below:

"Staff are committed to finding ways for students to remain connected to learning, students are able to articulate the support available to them, and parents are 
reporting positive changes. The school’s willingness to reflect, adapt and continue developing its practice provides a strong foundation for the next stage of its inclusion journey"

"The school’s stated belief that inclusion is about access for all is evident in the way staff speak about students and, importantly, in the actions that can be seen throughout the school day. There is a clear commitment to finding ways for students to access learning and to maintaining relationships with trusted adults."

"students spoke positively about their school and the staff who support them. They described teachers who “really get you” and understand how to help them engage and work hard"

"The range of provision available within school further demonstrates the school’s commitment to finding ways to keep students engaged in education. Bespoke support can include one-to-one tuition, small-group work, therapeutic interventions and PSHE. Staff are prepared to adapt provision around the needs of individual students rather than relying on a single approach."

"There is a clear belief that, wherever possible, students benefit from being in front of a specialist teacher and receiving the support they need to access learning."

"The school has considered the small details that can make a significant difference to students experiencing anxiety around examinations"

"There is also evidence that the increased level of support is helping students who may previously have struggled to remain in school."

More information about the IQM award can be found here