York’s newest school, Inspire Academy, has already set a national benchmark for inclusive education after being awarded the prestigious Inclusion Quality Mark (IQM) Centre of Excellence Status.
Registered in September, Inspire Academy has established itself as a thriving specialist provision for young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. The award recognises the school’s remarkable journey in creating a safe, nurturing environment where students who once faced exclusion now feel “like a family.”
The IQM report praised Inspire Academy’s ethos of kindness, resilience, and belonging, its innovative curriculum, and its impact on attendance and engagement. Inspectors highlighted the “relaxed and tranquil atmosphere” where students are welcomed each morning with a soft start and free breakfast, supported by mentoring, breakout spaces, and a relational approach that makes school feel unmissable.
One parent described Inspire Academy as an “incredible environment,” noting that their child has undergone a remarkable transformation since joining the school. They highlighted the significant impact the academy has had on their child’s self-esteem and confidence.
Head of School at Inspire Academy, Rickie Wilson said: “This award shows what can be achieved when you put belonging and inclusion at the heart of everything. Our staff and students have built something truly special here, and it’s wonderful to see that recognised nationally.”
The report also commended the Academy’s leadership, governance, and collaborative staff culture. Literacy development, outdoor education, and careers guidance were identified as exciting next steps, ensuring the school continues to raise aspirations and outcomes for its students.
Sue Wight, Director of SEND and Safeguarding for Excel Learning Trust, to which Inspire Academy belongs, added: “It’s a powerful endorsement of the standards we set and the difference our schools make every day. Inspire Academy has shown how inclusive values can transform lives.”
For the Trust, the award is a defining achievement. Mark Hassack, Chief Executive of Excel Learning Trust, commented: “This award reflects the Trust’s absolute commitment to inclusion in its widest sense. Inspire Academy embodies our values of excellence, community, inclusion and kindness, and this recognition affirms the impact of our collective vision. It is a huge moment for York and for our family of schools.”
The IQM report for Inspire Academy can be found here.
Pictured: Rickie Wilson, Head of School at Inspire Academy, Sue Wight, Director of SEN and Safeguarding at Excel Learning Trust and Rosy Vincenzi-Cavanagh, IQM Assessor.
22 December 2025