Inclusion

Celebrating Every Learner's Unique Strengths and Learning Styles.

At GEMS WSF, we embrace the diversity of our student body, recognizing and celebrating the unique strengths and learning styles of every individual. We foster an inclusive environment where all students, including those who identify as neurodivergent, feel valued, supported and empowered to reach their full potential.

Why We Embrace Inclusivity?

At GEMS WSF, we uphold the fundamental right of every child to a quality education. We believe that inclusive schools, which welcome and celebrate students with diverse learning needs and unique learning profiles, are not only more vibrant but also better prepare students for the diverse communities they'll encounter beyond school. Our vision for inclusive education is rooted in the belief that excellence is achieved together when all students receive the support they need to feel a sense of belonging and experience success—academically, culturally, socially, and emotionally—within a shared learning environment.

We recognize that neurodiversity is a natural and valuable aspect of human experience. By embracing and valuing the unique perspectives and strengths that neurodivergent students bring, we create a richer, more dynamic learning community that benefits all learners. Inclusion, for us, means fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding, where every student feels seen, heard, and empowered to contribute their unique gifts to the world.

Mission

Our mission for Inclusion is to empower every student to reach their full potential. We achieve this by recognizing and building upon their individual strengths and interests, providing them with personalized learning experiences and support that foster a sense of belonging and enable them to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Vision

Our vision is to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student feels valued, respected and empowered to succeed. We celebrate the unique strengths and learning styles of all students, fostering a sense of belonging and encouraging them to actively participate in their learning journey. We strive to remove barriers to learning and provide personalized support that enables each student to reach their full potential and make meaningful contributions to their community.

Our Approach to Support

At GEMS WSF, we believe that every teacher plays a vital role in supporting students with diverse learning needs. Our teachers work collaboratively with Learning Support Assistants (LSAs), SEN teachers and other professionals to create an inclusive and empowering learning environment for all. We utilize strengths-based assessments to identify each student's unique abilities and interests, and we develop personalized learning plans that build upon these strengths.

We offer a wide range of supports and services to meet the diverse needs of our students. These include assistive technology, differentiated instruction, social-emotional learning programs, and access to specialized interventions. Our goal is to ensure that every student receives the support they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Types of Support Available

Wave 1: Universal Support and English as an Additional Language

This wave of support is available to all students, recognizing that every learner benefits from high-quality teaching and a supportive classroom environment. Within this wave, teachers employ differentiated instruction, adaptive learning strategies, and assistive technology to meet the diverse needs of all learners.

Wave 2: Targeted Support

This wave provides additional, specific, and time-limited interventions for students who require further support to progress in their learning. These interventions may include small group activities or short-term programs designed to address specific learning needs.

Wave 3: Intensive Support

Students with more intensive learning needs receive individualized and specialized support within this wave. This may involve personalized learning plans, targeted interventions, modified curriculum and full-time or part-time support from a learning support assistant. The support provided is tailored to the unique strengths and needs of each student, ensuring they have the tools and resources necessary to thrive.

Flexibility and Adaptability

We understand that students' needs can change over time. Our support system is flexible and adaptable, allowing us to adjust the level and type of support provided based on each student's progress and evolving needs. We also offer flexible learning options, such as part-time attendance combined with specialized center support, to cater to individual circumstances and preferences.

Collaboration and Partnership

We believe in a collaborative approach to supporting students with diverse learning needs. Our teachers, LSAs, and other professionals work in partnership with students and their families to create personalized learning experiences that empower students to reach their full potential.

Social-Emotional Learning Program

The development of strong social-emotional skills is crucial for all students, and we recognize that some may face additional challenges in this area. At WSF, our Social-Emotional Learning Program provides a supportive space for students to develop essential skills such as effective communication, recognizing and managing emotions, understanding social cues, building self-efficacy, expressing needs, and practicing good manners.

We are committed to fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment where all students feel empowered to grow and develop these vital life skills. We celebrate the progress made by each student and are proud to witness their increasing confidence and competence in navigating social interactions and building meaningful relationships.