Continuing to Strengthen Inclusive Practice at NISC through IQM

By Alejandra Arreaga

Head of Inclusion-Secondary

At Northbridge International School Cambodia (NISC), inclusion is at the heart of our mission—to ensure every learner feels valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. Over the past year, NISC has further strengthened its commitment to inclusive education through its engagement with the internationally recognised Inclusion Quality Mark (IQM) framework.

As part of this process, NISC undertook the rigorous IQM International Inclusive School Award evaluation, which examines both a school’s inclusive ethos and the measurable impact of its practices across the community. The framework assesses eight key areas, including leadership, curriculum design, teaching and learning, assessment, student wellbeing, and partnerships with families and the wider community—ensuring a holistic, whole-school approach to inclusion.

The IQM journey has provided NISC with a valuable opportunity for deep reflection and strategic growth. By analysing current practices, celebrating strengths, and identifying areas for development, the school has reinforced its commitment to embedding inclusion across every aspect of school life. At Northbridge, inclusive practice is not a standalone initiative—it is intentionally integrated into our curriculum, teaching strategies, and community engagement.

A key milestone in this journey took place on 11–12 May, when IQM Assessor Kevin O’Neill visited NISC to conduct a comprehensive, on-site evaluation. During his visit, he engaged with students, staff, parents, and caregivers, gaining first-hand insight into the school’s inclusive culture. Through learning walks, classroom observations, therapy sessions, and stakeholder interviews, the assessor explored how inclusion is experienced daily across the school environment.

Upon completion of the visit, Kevin O’Neill noted that “the visit reflected a school with significant strengths, strong moral purpose and a very positive trajectory. The foundations are firmly in place for Northbridge to continue positioning itself as a leading inclusive international school within the region.”

Following this thorough review, NISC was awarded the IQM International Inclusive School Award, becoming the first school in Cambodia to receive this prestigious recognition. This achievement highlights Northbridge’s leadership in inclusive education in Southeast Asia and reinforces its position as a school where diversity is celebrated and every learner can thrive.

The International Inclusive School Award recognises schools that demonstrate a sustained and authentic commitment to inclusion. It celebrates excellence in inclusive teaching practices, SEND provision, and student wellbeing, while acknowledging schools that foster environments where all students can succeed academically, socially, and emotionally.