In this guide
Inclusive education is a term that appears in school brochures and mission statements across Lekki, but what does it actually mean in practice? For parents of children with additional needs, understanding what genuine inclusion looks like – and what questions to ask – can make the difference between a school that simply accommodates your child and one where your child truly thrives.
What Inclusive Education Is Not
First, let us clear up some common misconceptions. Inclusive education does not mean:
- Placing a child with additional needs in a mainstream classroom without support and hoping for the best
- Expecting the classroom teacher to manage every need without training or resources
- Treating every child exactly the same, regardless of their individual requirements
- A one-size-fits-all approach to teaching and learning
True inclusion is not about physical presence alone. It is about meaningful participation.
What Inclusive Education Actually Looks Like
In a genuinely inclusive school in Lagos:
Individualised Support Plans
Every child with additional needs has a plan that outlines their specific goals, the support they will receive, and how progress will be measured. This plan is developed with input from teachers, parents, and any specialists involved in the child’s care.
Trained Teachers and Support Staff
Classroom teachers receive training in inclusive practices, differentiated instruction, and behaviour support. Where needed, teaching assistants or SEN specialists work alongside the classroom teacher to provide additional support.
Adapted Curriculum and Teaching Methods
Teachers adapt how they teach to reach every learner. This might mean using visual schedules for a child with autism, providing extra time for a child with processing difficulties, or using sensory breaks for a child who struggles to regulate their attention.
A Culture of Belonging
The most important element of inclusive education is the culture of the school. Children with additional needs are not segregated or treated as different. They are full members of their class, included in all activities, trips, and events – with whatever adaptations are needed to make their participation possible.
Questions to Ask When Choosing a School
If you are considering a school in Lekki for a child with additional needs, ask these questions:
- How does the school define inclusive education, and what does it look like in practice here?
- Do you have a dedicated SEN coordinator or department? What are their qualifications?
- How are classroom teachers trained to support children with diverse needs?
- What is the process for assessing a child’s needs and developing a support plan?
- Can you provide examples of how you have adapted teaching for children with specific needs (autism, ADHD, dyslexia, etc.)?
- What is the school’s policy on one-on-one support or shadow teachers?
- How do you support children socially, not just academically? Are there anti-bullying policies and social skills programmes?
- How do you communicate with parents about their child’s progress and challenges?
- What happens if the school’s support is not enough – how do you decide when a different placement might be better?
Red Flags to Watch For
Be cautious if a school:
- Uses the term “inclusive” but cannot describe what that means in specific, practical terms
- Has no dedicated SEN staff or clear SEN policy
- Expects you to provide a shadow teacher at your own cost with no school oversight
- Suggests your child will “grow out of” their needs without any structured support
- Has a history of asking families to leave when their child’s needs become challenging
The Role of Parents in Inclusive Education
As a parent, you are your child’s best advocate. You know their strengths, challenges, and what works best for them. In a good inclusive school, your voice is valued and your insights are incorporated into your child’s support plan. You should feel like a partner, not a petitioner.
Inclusion at Pleasant Places School
At PPS, we believe every child has the right to learn in an environment that respects their individual needs and celebrates their unique strengths. Our SEN team works closely with classroom teachers and parents to ensure that children with additional needs receive the support they require to participate fully in school life. We invite you to speak with our SEN coordinator, visit our classrooms, and see our inclusive approach in action.
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