Inclusion
What does ‘inclusion’ mean at Footsteps?
Footsteps is a mainstream school with an inclusive policy. This means that we welcome all children, regardless of race, gender, age or disability. We strive to maintain the recommended proportion of student population with SEND in order for our school to be a true representation of our society in Cayman, whilst ensuring that the working environment is well-balanced and beneficial to all.
At Footsteps, all our staff are part of the inclusion team, providing learning opportunities that are responsive and differentiated to meet the learning and social-emotional needs of all children with all abilities. This results in confident, assured children who are prepared for a future in which they will be full, participating members of society and their local communities.
We care about the happiness and wellbeing of all of our children first and foremost, and we aim to develop happy, relaxed and confident students who boast a growth mindset. When everyone is included, everyone benefits. Tolerance, empathy and leadership skills are employed and practised daily, creating comradery amongst all of our students.
We hold high expectations of all our students, believing that every child can progress and will achieve. We measure success not only on standardised assessments but also on personal academic targets, character development and social development.
Above all, Footsteps aims to create an educational environment where students’ unique characteristics are valued, successes are celebrated and every one of our students feels joy every day in coming to school and learning.
Inclusion and Admissions
Students with recognised special educational needs and disabilities will be invited into school for an informal assessment and a short trial. If a place is available, parents will receive a letter of acceptance and will be asked to confirm the place by paying a security deposit. Footsteps is an inclusive school – we strive to maintain the recommended proportion of student population with SEND in order for our school to be a true representation of society, and for the working environment to be balanced, manageable and beneficial to all. We aim to support all children’s individual differences with our in-house teaching and support staff, however, if we deem it necessary for a child to work with a 1:1 learning assistant, parents will be responsible for additional costs involved and should be involved in the collaborative appointment of a suitable member of staff.
Footsteps was proudly awarded the Inclusion Quality Mark in 2022.
Testimonials & Awards
See what they had to say:
"Incredible school! We moved with our son from London to Cayman just over 2 1/2 years ago and the transition was seamless with truly dedicated teachers that go the extra mile on a daily basis. Our son was in an Independent School in London and our initial fear was that the standard of teaching would be lower in Cayman, but Footsteps surpassed our expectations on so many levels. Our son has excelled not just in his academic achievements, but his interest in learning and confidence as a well rounded person. His next academic adventure is boarding school and I am very happy with his readiness for this transition following his time at Footsteps. I know that he and we, will miss Footsteps immensely."
"Footsteps school is like no other school on the island. The children, parents and teachers have built a close-knit family like atmosphere. My child has moved around and has been to three schools off and on island, but this one fits like the missing puzzle piece. The small class sizes make it much easier for children to build a bond with their peers and teachers, as well as get the assistance they may need. The nature learning days are so much fun, loaded with hands on experiences, (BONUS: without devices!!) and these days will be glorious childhood memories that will follow my child through life. There truly is no other school in Cayman that can provide my child with these experiences!"
“Footsteps School is strong academically, but also has a broad, exciting and vibrant curriculum - full of science, sport, drama, language and much more. I appreciate the consistent feedback and warmth I get from the teachers.”
“My children love going to Footsteps School and feel safe and happy there. I would not hesitate to recommend it to any other parent.”
"Fantastic school! We have recently moved from the UK to Grand Cayman our biggest worry was our children moving schools. Footsteps have not only made the process very easy but we feel so lucky that our children will now have such a wonderful school life. Footsteps is an incredibly nurturing environment where staff and pupils are all so friendly and welcoming. The class sizes are small and it has made a huge impact on our children’s academic learning - they absolutely love going to school everyday! We have been really impressed by the nature learning days, sports curriculum as well as the variety of learning offered in the school’s curriculum- our son has been particularly enjoying architecture this term! I wouldn’t hesitate recommending this wonderful school to anyone!"
