Inclusive Mainstream Fund (IMF):What It Means for Schools and How YogaBugs Virtual Can Help
The introduction of the Inclusive Mainstream Fund (IMF) marks a significant shift in how schools are expected to support inclusion, SEND provision and pupil wellbeing.
Whilst the funding itself is welcome, the bigger change is the expectation that schools demonstrate how they are creating more inclusive environments, removing barriers to learning and ensuring all children can access education successfully.
For many school leaders already facing challenges around behaviour, attendance, emotional wellbeing and increasing levels of SEND need, the question is simple: How can we strengthen inclusion without increasing staff workload?
What is the Inclusive Mainstream Fund?
The Inclusive Mainstream Fund has been introduced to help mainstream schools improve inclusion and ensure more children receive the support they need within their school community.
Schools will be expected to demonstrate how they are using funding to support:
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Early intervention
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Inclusive teaching and learning
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Emotional wellbeing
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Attendance and belonging
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Family engagement
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Accessibility and participation
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Positive outcomes for children with additional needs
The focus is not simply on additional resources, but on creating school environments where all children can thrive.
The Growing Challenge for Schools
School leaders across the country are reporting increasing levels of:
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Anxiety and emotional difficulties
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Behaviour challenges
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Poor emotional regulation
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Reduced concentration and engagement
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Growing SEND needs
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Attendance concerns
Many of these challenges become barriers to learning.
When children are unable to regulate their emotions, manage stress or remain focused in the classroom, learning becomes more difficult for both the individual child and those around them.
This is where wellbeing and inclusion strategies become increasingly important.
How YogaBugs Virtual Supports Inclusive Practice
YogaBugs Virtual is a whole-school wellbeing platform designed specifically for primary schools.
The platform provides over 200 yoga, mindfulness, movement and emotional wellbeing sessions that can be delivered by school staff throughout the school day.
Schools use YogaBugs Virtual to support:
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Emotional regulation
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Focus and concentration
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Readiness to learn
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Positive behaviour
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Pupil wellbeing
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SEND inclusion
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Calm and engaged classrooms
Importantly, sessions can be used as part of universal provision, making them accessible to all children whilst also supporting those who may need additional help.
Supporting Key IMF Priorities
Whilst no single programme can deliver the full requirements of the Inclusive Mainstream Fund, YogaBugs Virtual can support schools in several key areas.
Early Intervention
Regular wellbeing activities help schools provide proactive support before difficulties escalate.
Inclusion and Accessibility
Sessions are designed to be accessible for a wide range of pupils and include SEND-friendly content that promotes participation and engagement.
Emotional Wellbeing
Breathing exercises, mindfulness activities and movement sessions help children develop self-awareness and emotional regulation skills.
Belonging and Engagement
Children who feel calm, confident and supported are more likely to participate positively in school life and engage with learning.
Family Engagement
Parent access enables schools to extend wellbeing support beyond the classroom and encourage consistent approaches between home and school.
A Practical Solution for Busy Schools
One of the biggest challenges schools face is implementing new initiatives without creating additional workload.
YogaBugs Virtual has been designed to be simple, flexible and easy to use.
Schools can access:
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Curriculum-linked wellbeing content
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Classroom Brain Breaks
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Yoga and mindfulness sessions
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Emotional regulation activities
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Staff wellbeing resources
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Parent access
Sessions can be delivered during PE, PSHE, intervention groups, transition times or as part of wider wellbeing provision.
Supporting Every Child to Thrive
The Inclusive Mainstream Fund represents an important opportunity for schools to strengthen their approach to inclusion.
As expectations continue to grow around wellbeing, behaviour, attendance and SEND provision, schools need practical solutions that support children whilst remaining realistic for staff to deliver.
YogaBugs Virtual helps schools create calmer classrooms, support emotional wellbeing and reduce barriers to learning, enabling more children to participate, engage and thrive.
To find out more about how YogaBugs Virtual can support your school’s inclusion and wellbeing priorities, book a free demonstration today.
