TGS has today received formal recognition following a review on 23/05/25, that it is an IQM (Inclusion Quality mark) Flagship School.
This is a prestigious award as TGS are now the first Suffolk secondary school and one of approximately 100 schools nationally that have achieved IQM Flagship School status.
This award recognises those unique schools who have held IQM Centre of Excellence status for at least 3 years; and played a strong leadership role in developing inclusion best practice across a network of schools.
Some of the comments highlighting the school’s pursuit of continued excellence for inclusion included.
- Importantly, the drive for inclusion is not confined to one department or team. Staff across the school—teachers, support staff, and leaders—are aligned in their commitment
- In practice, support for disadvantaged students at Thomas Gainsborough is holistic and responsive. Leaders and staff understand that practical barriers must be addressed before academic potential can be fully realised.
- Thomas Gainsborough School continues to go above and beyond in its mission to ensure no student is left behind
- One outstanding initiative that deserves recognition is the school’s promotion of a “Sense of Belonging.” This powerful approach aims to ensure that all students feel connected to the school community and recognised as individuals.
- Thomas Gainsborough School continues to build on its strong foundations in SEND provision, placing the needs of all learners at the centre of its practice. The school’s commitment to inclusion is not merely theoretical—it is woven into daily interactions, curriculum design, and the strategic direction of the whole school community.