A Perspective on Inclusion from England

Abstract

I argue that it is not possible to provide a single English perspective on ‘inclusion’ or ‘integration’. Instead, I set out my perspective and compare it with the way ‘inclusion’ and ‘inclusive education’ have been defined by others. My view starts from an assumption of diversity within common groups and is linked to the development of comprehensive community education. It is concerned with fostering participation for all and reducing all exclusionary pressures. I indicate the conflicts between this approach, the discourse of ‘special needs’ and the selective pressures from recent legislation and official policy. I relate two studies to my perspective; the first concerned with the inclusion of students with Down's Syndrome in mainstream secondary schools and the second with exploring the participation of all students in a community high school.