Setting

Oaklands College

Smallford Campus Hatfield Road St Albans Herts AL4 0JA

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Oaklands College

27th & 28th January 2004 Further Education College Or Boarding School for Pupils aged 16+

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Commission for Social Care Inspection

Launched in April 2004, the Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) is the single inspectorate for social care in England.

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Commission for Social Care Inspection

The Commission combines the work formerly done by the Social Services Inspectorate (SSI), the SSI/Audit Commission Joint Review Team and the National Care Standards Commission.

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The role of CSCI is to:

• Promote improvement in social care • Inspect all social care - for adults and children - in the public, private and voluntary sectors • Publish annual reports to Parliament on the performance of social care and on the state of the social care market • Inspect and assess ‘Value for Money’ of council social services • Hold performance statistics on social care • Publish the ‘star ratings’ for council social services • Register and inspect services against national standards • Host the Children’s Rights Director role.

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Inspection Methods & Findings

SECTION B of this report summarises key findings and evidence from this inspection. The following 4-point scale is used to indicate the extent to which standards have been met or not met by placing the assessed level alongside the phrase "Standard met?"

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The 4-point scale ranges from:

4 - Standard Exceeded (Commendable) 3 - Standard Met (No Shortfalls) 2 - Standard Almost Met (Minor Shortfalls) 1 - Standard Not Met (Major Shortfalls) 'O' or blank in the 'Standard met?' box denotes standard not assessed on this occasion. '9' in the 'Standard met?' box denotes standard not applicable. 'X' is used where a percentage value or numerical value is not applicable. Oaklands College Page 1

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Fax No: Address

Smallford Campus, Hatfield Road, St Albans, Herts, AL4 0JA Email address:

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Name of person responsible for welfare and accommodation of students under 18

Is the Establishment a Boarding School whose pupils are all aged over 16? YES

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Date of last welfare inspection:

Date of Inspection Visit 27th January 2004 ID Code

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Date of last welfare inspection:

Name of NCSC Inspector 1 Marian Byrne 117477

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Date of last welfare inspection:

Name of NCSC Inspector 4 Elizabeth Chamberlain (observer)

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inspections and bring a different

perspective to the inspection process. There was no lay assessor assigned to this inspection.

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

Further Education colleges accommodating students under 18, or arranging accommodation for them, are subject to inspection by the National Care Standards Commission (NCSC) to determine whether the welfare of students under 18 is adequately safeguarded and promoted while they are accommodated at or by the college.

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

Inspections assess the extent to which the college is meeting the National Minimum Standards for Accommodation of Students under 18 by Further Education Colleges, published by the Secretary of State under Section 87C of the Children Act 1989, and other relevant requirements of the Children Act 1989 as amended.

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

These standards for Further Education Colleges also apply to boarding schools whose pupils are all aged 16 or over.

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

This document summarises the inspection findings of the NCSC in respect of Oaklands College. The report concerns only the accommodation and welfare of students under 18 accommodated at or by the college, not the college's accommodation or provision for day students or adult students.

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

The report follows the format of the National Minimum Standards and the numbering shown in the report corresponds to that of the standards.

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

• Inspection methods used • Key findings and evidence • Overall ratings in relation to the standards • Recommended action by the college • Advisory recommendations on welfare of students under 18 • Summary of the findings • Report of the Lay Assessor (where relevant) • The Principal's response and proposed action plan to address findings

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INSPECTION VISITS

Inspections are undertaken in line with the agreed regulatory framework under the Care Standards Act 2000 and the Children Act 1989 as amended, with additional visits as required.

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INSPECTION VISITS

The report represents the inspector's findings from the evidence found at the specified inspection dates. Oaklands College Page 4

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ON SITE AND IN ANY LODGINGS ARRANGEMENTS

Accommodation for students is provided in two groups of houses located in the grounds. In East Drive are three pairs of semi-detached houses, each with their own back garden. The properties are each home to up to five students and offer single accommodation bedrooms, a small kitchen, shower and toilet. Those offering accommodation to four students have additional lounge space. The properties in North Drive are situated much closer to the main buildings. Within the main complex are a fitness centre, a common room and a cafeteria. There are also external facilities including a laundry for student use and an all-weather Astroturf pitch. Oaklands College Page 5

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WHAT THE COLLEGE DOES WELL IN ACCOMMODATING STUDENTS UNDER 18

The College provides dedicated welfare staff. This staffing group appears to be well managed and spends time getting to know the students. There are student meetings at the beginning of the school year. There are regular checks on the students at night to ensure all students are safely home.

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UNDER 18

The accommodation is sited at the end of a long road that is also a public right of way. The road to the accommodation is poorly lit and has numerous pot-holes. The inspectors noted that cars were driven within the college grounds at dangerous speeds creating a further hazard for the students walking to their accommodation. This needs to be addressed through risk assessment. The nightly checks while good need to be staggered and the introduction of a further check may deter students who may feel they can leave the College when the nightly checks have been done. Staff of the College and staff of the Arsenal Academy who have responsibility for students should meet regularly. Care needs to be taken to ensure those students who are not part of the Arsenal Academy are left to feel isolated particularly at the weekends.

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UNDER 18

The inspectors found the college welcoming and open to suggestions on how to improve the facilities for students. The accommodation is in the main good the addition of a dining area to each house would be welcome. The College needs to develop a separate policy on counteracting bullying. Medication records need to be expanded to include details of medication taken. Fire drills must be introduced and care taken to ensure fire equipment is tested regularly. Risk assessments must be carried out on all aspects of student activity the college has a responsibility for. A procedure for ‘missing students’ must be formulated. Feedback was given to staff on the first day of the inspection regarding the quality of the food being served, staff must be congratulated on the immediate action they took regarding this. The food on the second day was much improved. Oaklands College Page 6

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IMPLEMENTATION OF RECOMMENDED ACTIONS FROM LAST INSPECTION

Were the Recommended Actions from the last Inspection visit fully implemented? NA

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implemented are listed below:

No Standard Recommended actions Timescale for action This was the first inspection of Oaklands College. Oaklands College Page 7

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RECOMMENDED ACTION

Identified below are the actions recommended on issues addressed in the main body of the report in order to safeguard and promote the welfare of residential students under 18 adequately in accordance with the National Minimum Standards for FE Colleges Accommodating Students under 18. The references below are to the relevant Standards. Non-implementation of recommended action can lead to future statutory notification of failure to safeguard and promote welfare. No Standard* Recommended Action Timescale for action 1 FE5 The college’s policy on countering bullying must be treated as a separate policy. It should include measures to counteract bullying, identify who the policy covers and how the college will respond to bullying or harassment of students in the local community and to counter any initiation ceremonies intended to cause pain anxiety or humiliation.

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RECOMMENDED ACTION

2 FE5 The complaint procedure must include details of how to contact the Commission.

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RECOMMENDED ACTION

3 FE7 The records relating to student health and welfare must be expanded to include details of any medication taken, who is responsible for administration, who is responsible for filling prescriptions, the name of the person who has assumed parental responsibility within the college and if the student has any allergies to medication.

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RECOMMENDED ACTION

4 FE22 The chairs in the dining room were stained and of an inappropriate style for a refectory. They must be replaced with furniture that is easier to clean.

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RECOMMENDED ACTION

5 FE24 Fire drills in the residential areas must be introduced and a review of the testing of all fire fighting equipment in these areas must take place.

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RECOMMENDED ACTION

6 FE27 The College must conduct risk assessments on all aspects of student’s activities within the college and outside activities for which it is responsible.

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RECOMMENDED ACTION

7 FE28 The College must formulate a ‘missing students’ procedure for both staff and students to follow. Oaklands College Page 8 8 FE36 It is recommended that appropriate dining furniture be provided for each house to enable the occupants to eat in comfort.

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ADVISORY RECOMMENDATIONS

Identified below are advisory recommendations on welfare matters addressed in the main body of the report and based on the National Minimum Standards, made for consideration by the college. No Refer to Standard* Recommendation

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ADVISORY RECOMMENDATIONS

1 FE1 The college should to consider providing information covering the extent of choice in selecting or changing a student’s room, to clarify if students under 18 are always housed separately from adult students, the criteria for accommodation off-campus, the responsibility and how this is monitored

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ADVISORY RECOMMENDATIONS

2 FE3 It is advised that when the link person is away from the college for an indefinite period, another is identified and receives appropriate training to enable them to undertake the task.

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ADVISORY RECOMMENDATIONS

3 FE4 The student disciplinary policy should include reference to the use of physical restraint.

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ADVISORY RECOMMENDATIONS

4 FE6 The policy on purchasing alcohol etc. should be expanded to include possessing or displaying obscene material.

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ADVISORY RECOMMENDATIONS

5 FE8 The college needs to ensure that any incident of concern or allegations of incidents that could put a student at risk must be reported to senior staff and to the Commission.

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ADVISORY RECOMMENDATIONS

6 FE12 It is recommended that meetings with students be held more frequently than once a term.

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ADVISORY RECOMMENDATIONS

7 FE13 The College should develop clearer lines of communication with the Arsenal Academy in particular to ensure all staff with responsibility for students have access to information pertinent to their welfare.

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ADVISORY RECOMMENDATIONS

8 FE15 Consideration must be given to how the College would care for students whose families are not contactable in emergencies.

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ADVISORY RECOMMENDATIONS

9 FE21 All accidents to students are recorded in the same book making it difficult to differentiate between boarders and day students. It is recommended that separate books be retained.

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ADVISORY RECOMMENDATIONS

10 FE27 The College should ensure it has parental consent for students to participate in any high-risk activities. Oaklands College Page 9 11 FE28 Students are checked to ensure they are in bed after lights out and welfare staff do not follow a regular routine in checking all students are in bed, the College is advised that a spot check should be introduced to ensure students stay in bed and do not abuse the present system.

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ADVISORY RECOMMENDATIONS

12 FE37 To increase security, it is recommended that additional street lighting be considered in East Drive. In the mean time the inspectors recommended that all students be provided with a torch, an alarm and reflective clothing.

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ADVISORY RECOMMENDATIONS

13 FE37 It is suggested that net curtains would increase the privacy of students living in the East Drive properties.

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ADVISORY RECOMMENDATIONS

14 FE38 It is suggested that the security officer makes himself known to the students or wears clearly identifiable clothing to ensure that he is not mistaken for an intruder. 15 FE42 Road surfaces are pitted and could cause a trip hazard at night. It is recommended that they receive urgent attention. A meeting is held with the students each term. It is recommended that this meeting be held more frequently. Note: You may refer to the relevant standard in the remainder of the report by omitting the 2- letter prefix. E.g. FE10 refers to standard 10 Oaklands College Page 10

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS AND FINDINGS

The following inspection methods have been used in the production of this report

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS AND FINDINGS

Direct Observation YES Student Guided Tour of Accommodation YES Student Guided Tour of Recreational Areas YES

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS AND FINDINGS

Checks with other Organisations and Individuals • Social Services NO • Fire Service NO • Environmental Health NO • Other Inspectorates NO • College Doctor NO • Independent Person or Counsellor NO • Chair of Governors NO • DfES (if a school) NO 'Tracking' individual welfare arrangements YES Group discussion with students YES Survey of accommodation/welfare staff YES Interviews with key staff YES Student survey YES Parents’ survey NO Early morning & late evening visits NO Meal taken with students YES Inspection of policy/practice documents YES Inspection of records YES Answer phone for student comments NO Visit to Sanatorium NO Visits to lodgings YES Individual interview with student(s) YES

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS AND FINDINGS

Date of Inspection 27/01/04 Time of Inspection 09.30 Duration Of Inspection (hrs.) 60 Number of inspector Days on site 3 Oaklands College Page 11

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Number of Residential Students under 18 at time of inspection:

Number of separate College Buildings or units accommodating students 8

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College

The following pages summarise the key findings and evidence from this inspection, together with the NCSC assessment of the extent to which standards have been met. The following scale is used to indicate the extent to which the standards have been met or not met by placing the assessed level along side the phrase ”Standard met?”

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College

The scale ranges from: 4 - Standard Exceeded (Commendable) 3 - Standard Met (No Shortfalls) 2 - Standard Almost Met (Minor Shortfalls) 1 - Standard Not Met (Major Shortfalls)

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College

"0" in the "Standard met" box denotes standard not assessed on this occasion. "9" in the "Standard met" box denotes standard not applicable. “X” is used where a percentage value or numerical value is not applicable. Oaklands College Page 12

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The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

• A clear statement of the principles of residential provision and student support at the college is available to those needing this information. • Students are protected from bullying and harassment. • Students are protected from abuse. • Use of discipline with students is fair and appropriate. • Students' complaints are adequately responded to. • Under-age drinking, substance abuse and possession of obscene material by students are appropriately countered. • The safeguarding and promotion of students' health and welfare is supported by appropriate records.

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A suitable statement of the college’s welfare, accommodation and student support

policies and practice is available to parents, students and staff. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 The College makes available details of its welfare, accommodation and support policies. These include the admission policies and procedures affecting residential students, the nature and organisation of accommodation at the college, an outline of the welfare and support facilities and provision available to students and the nature and extent of college supervision and monitoring of students under 18 (specifically including evenings weekends and at night). Any specific need will be identified and met through a care plan. This is reviewed regularly. Conduct expectations are clearly defined. The college should to consider adding additional information to cover the extent of choice in selecting or changing a student’s room, to make clear whether students under 18 are always housed separately form adult students and the criteria for accommodating off campus including the

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A suitable statement of the college’s welfare, accommodation and student support

responsibility and how this is monitored. Oaklands College Page 13

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form of harassment, which is known to students and staff and which is effective in

practice. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 1 The college’s policy on countering bullying is included in the disciplinary policy. This needs to be treated as a separate policy. It should include measures to counteract bullying, identify who the policy covers and should include staff and how the college will respond to bullying or harassment of students in the local community and to counter any initiation ceremonies intended to cause pain anxiety or humiliation. The policy should be available to staff and students and all staff both professional and ancillary and all visiting staff.

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with local Area Child Protection Committee procedures, and is known to staff and

students. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 The college has a wide-ranging policy on the protection of students under 18, and the inspectors saw evidence that the policy is followed. It has a written child protection policy and a named person has links with the local police and Social Services. It includes procedures for all staff that receives allegations of abuse or suspect that abuse may be occurring at college home or elsewhere. The policy is available to in the library, staff rooms and reception. The college, on the advice of the inspector, intends to include it in the student’s handbook. Training is part of new staff’s induction. It is further advised that when the link person is away from the college for an indefinite period, another is identified and receives appropriate training to enable them to undertake the task. While it is understood that the college does not encourage staff/student sexual relationships it needs to be clear

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with local Area Child Protection Committee procedures, and is known to staff and

that a sexual relationship with a student under 18 is prohibited.

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relation to unacceptable behaviour and breaches of student discipline, known to

students, staff and parents. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 The college has what appears to be a fair and appropriate student policy. Over the days of the inspection good behaviour was observed throughout the college. Staff issues sanctions. The policy should be extended to include how physical restraint would implement. Suspensions and exclusions are dealt with in an appropriate manner. While the policy was clear that the incident would be investigated the inspectors saw evidence where there was no paper work to support a conclusion with a written warning. Oaklands College Page 15

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complaints from students and parents about the college's role in safeguarding and

promoting the students' welfare, which is known to students, parents and staff. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 The College has an appropriate complaints policy it is easily available to staff and students. It should however include the address of the NCSC.

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in past 12 months

Number of above complaints substantiated: 0

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past 12 months:

Number of above complaints substantiated: 0 Oaklands College Page 16

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and possession of obscene material, which are known to students and staff and are

effective in practice. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 The college has a clear policy on the consumption of alcohol and substance abuse. All reasonable measures are taken to ensure students do not consume alcohol or other potentially harmful substances. There is no bar on the college site. The policy should be expanded to include possessing or displaying obscene material.

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Where Students and parents provide the information, adequate records are kept in

relation to individual students' health and welfare needs and issues. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 Each student has a record relating to his or her health and welfare. These must be expanded to include details of any medication they are taking, who is responsible for administration, who is responsible for filling prescriptions, the name of the person who has assumed parental responsibility within the college and if the student has any allergies to medication. This includes students who board off campus. The information stored must contain all relevant details obtained and must represent an up to date database on the student’s health and welfare. Oaklands College Page 17

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The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

• There is clear leadership of residential provision in the college. • Crises affecting students' welfare are effectively managed. • The college's organisation of residential provision safeguards students' welfare. • Students have access to a range and choice of activities. • Students are enabled to contribute to the operation of residential provision in the college.

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There is clear management accountability for the accommodation and welfare of

students under 18. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 The college has ensured that there is a designated person who has overall responsibility for boarding students. She in turn manages a team of welfare staff who are responsible for the day-to-day supervision of the boarding students. There are dedicated budgets for the maintenance and development of both accommodation and student welfare. The provision of food for students is contacted out, though the College retains responsibility for this provision. There is an in-house audit of all service provided by the College. There is a suitable induction course for new staff with responsibility for students who board. There is an appropriate staff disciplinary procedure in place. The college needs to ensure that any incident of concern or allegations of incidents that could put a student at risk must be reported to senior staff and to the Commission.

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Standard 9 (9.1 - 9.3)

The college is capable of satisfactorily managing crises affecting students' welfare. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The College has an appropriate crises management procedure in place if the accommodation should become inhabitable due to unforeseen circumstances such as a fire and will do all that is reasonable to protect and safeguard and to promote the welfare of the students concerned.

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are accommodated with adult students, or where both genders are accommodated

together. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 All students have a lockable room of their own. No students over 18 are accommodated on the same premises as students under that age.

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An appropriate range and choice of recreational activities and provision is made for

students under 18. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Considerable effort goes into ensuring students have a range of activities. Transport is provided for students to do personal shopping on a Monday evening. There is a budget for outings. Sport facilities are opened for students where possible. There are regular meetings with students to discuss activities and the college has recently appointed a Student Activity Co-ordinator (her e-mail address is advertised internally). Oaklands College Page 19

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Standard 12 (12.1 - 12.3)

Students under 18 are consulted over accommodation and welfare provision. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 A meeting is held with the students each term. It is recommended that this meeting be held more frequently. Students complained to the inspectors about the darkness and state of the road to their accommodation. Two female inspectors walked to the accommodation at night, and found it to be an unpleasant experience due to the darkness, despite a full moon. It was also noted that there are some very large potholes in the road. The College was aware of this and had started to address the situation by installing more streetlights. In the mean time the inspectors recommended that all students be provided with a torch, an alarm and reflective clothing. Oaklands College Page 20

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The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

• Students receive personal support from staff. • Students receive first aid and health care as necessary. • Students are adequately supervised when ill. • Students are supported in relation to any health or personal problems. • Students do not experience inappropriate discrimination. • Students can maintain private contact with their parents and families. • Students' personal possessions and money are protected. • Students receive guidance, both on arrival at the college and in preparing to leave the college. • Risk assessment and college record keeping contribute to students' welfare. • Students receive good quality catering provision. • Students have access to food and drinking water in addition to main meals. • Students are protected from the risk of fire. • Student welfare is not compromised by unusual or onerous demands. • The welfare of any young people accommodated by the college other than its

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The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

own students is safeguarded and promoted. • Students' safety and welfare are protected during high-risk activities. • Students are appropriately supervised during free time.

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Each student has one or more members of staff to whom he or she can confidently

turn for personal guidance or with a personal problem. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 Each student has a personal tutor to support and advise on personal and welfare matters. There is dedicated staff group who are not on the academic or management staff for out of hours support to students. The Criminal Records Bureau had cleared these members of staff. The College should develop clearer lines of communication in particular with the Arsenal Academy (who have very close contact with the majority of the current boarders) to ensure all staff with responsibility for students have access to information pertinent to their welfare. Oaklands College Page 21

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Appropriate first aid and minor illness treatment are available to students at college,

with access to medical and dental services as required. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 Students retain their own medication. The College registers all students with the same doctor, although they do have the opportunity to register with a different GP if they wish. They retain their own dentist, but the College should make arrangements for emergency dental work should the need arise. There is a designated first aider but the college does not offer facilities for students who are ill.

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at college or in college arranged accommodation are regularly checked and are able

to summon assistance readily and rapidly when necessary. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 The College has a clear policy that student who are ill must be cared for by their families outside the College. Consideration must be given to how the College would care for students whose families are not contactable in emergencies. Oaklands College Page 22

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Significant health and personal problems of individual students are identified and

managed appropriately. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 The College appears to support the students very well. However, there is sometimes a communication problem where information is not always passed to the appropriate people. There was an example of one student who was reported to be ‘suicidal’, the staff of the Arsenal Academy were aware of this and failed to pass this information on to other staff responsible for her welfare. Students have information on support services outside the College, for example Childline. Counselling is available to students where an eating disorder is suspected, although no formal checking takes place.

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minority groups amongst students and students who do not "fit in" to the college,

residential unit or student body. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 During the inspection it was apparent that the College creates an equal opportunities culture. Their policies on equal opportunities are being re-written and will be launched later this year; therefore they were not available for inspection. Oaklands College Page 23

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Standard 18 (18.1 - 18.5)

The college enables students to contact their parents and families in private. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The College provides each house with mobile phones. They were not working on the first day of the inspection by the second day this was resolved. The inspectors were assured that the phones would be checked as part of the daily inspection of the boarding premises. Parents are encouraged to visit and the students have ample areas to see their parents in private. The College has regular contact with the parents of student and would communicate welfare concerns unless explicitly asked not to do so by the students. Prospective parents and students are welcome to visit the college prior to the student taking up residence to inspect and discuss all aspects of residential and supervision arrangements.

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The college provides reasonable protection for students' personal possessions and

any student's money looked after by the college. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The College provides a facility for the safekeeping of money and valuables for the students. At the time of the inspection none of the students were taking advantage of this facility. Each student has his or her own room with a lockable door. Oaklands College Page 24

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There are appropriate processes of induction and guidance for new students arriving

at the college, and guidance and preparation for students prior to leaving the college. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 New students are given suitable information about the college routines and residential arrangements. All students have a key to their building and to their own rooms. Students must inform welfare staff when they are going off campus, where they are going and what time they will return. A check is carried out every night after ‘lights out’ to ensure all students are safely back in the College. Inspectors recommended that additional and random spot checks be carried out to ensure students do not go out after the routine check has been completed.

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assessments, sanctions against students, complaints and accidents, to identify any

issues requiring action. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 There is a named member of staff who has responsibility for Health and Safety throughout the College. He monitors the accident book. All accidents to students are recorded in the same book making it difficult to differentiate between boarders and day students. It is recommended that in future accidents to boarders be kept in a separate book. When inspecting the sanction records it was clear that the College is not following its own disciplinary procedure in so far as the records of one incident had no evidence of an investigation having taken place. This did not appear to have been picked up through monitoring. The College’s health and safety representative identified to the inspectors an area of risk to students. The speed cars are driven in college grounds is posing a risk of an accident to students. The inspectors who walked to the accommodation at night also

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assessments, sanctions against students, complaints and accidents, to identify any

identified this risk. As the College is aware of this risk it needs to address risk reduction as a matter of urgency. Oaklands College Page 25

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provision for special dietary, medical or religious needs, with clean and suitable

cutlery, crockery and dining facilities. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 The College provides breakfast and an evening meal. Students must provide their own lunch, which can be purchased in the student dining room. The students had identified the quality of the food as an area of dissatisfaction in the questionnaires they had completed. On the first day of the inspection the food sampled by the inspecting team was found to be of poor quality and there was no fresh fruit, salad or vegetables on offer. All the hot options appeared to have been fried or deep fat fried including the menu item (roast chicken). There was a vegetarian option on offer. The students also informed the inspectors that, sometimes there was not enough food for all of the students at the evening meal. This was reported to the appropriate College staff at the end of the first day of the inspection. The food on the second day of the inspection was significantly improved with a much better selection of

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provision for special dietary, medical or religious needs, with clean and suitable

freshly cooked food, which included a good selection of fresh salad and vegetables. There was a problem with students not attending breakfast; the College dealt with this very effectively by providing the students with appropriate food to make a simple breakfast in the kitchen of their accommodation. This was reported to work very well. The chairs in the dining room were stained and inappropriate for a refectory as they were cloth covered and difficult to clean. Consideration must be given to replacing them. Most of the boarding students are interested in fitness and diet and informed the inspectors that they would welcome input into menu planning. Oaklands College Page 26

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Students have access to drinking water in both residential and teaching areas, and to

food or the means of preparing food at reasonable times in addition to main meals. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Each residential house provides facilities to prepare snacks. Drinking water is available throughout the College.

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recommendations of the Fire Service are implemented within given timescales and

maintained. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 1 At the time that this inspection took place, there were no fire drills undertaken in the residential areas. Staff informed the inspectors that fire equipment was tested annually. The date on the fire extinguishers did not reflect this. A risk assessment on the risks of fire was unavailable for inspection. Fire drills must be introduced as a matter of urgency and emergency lighting reviewed. Oaklands College Page 27

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that these are appropriate to the students concerned and do not unacceptably affect

students' welfare. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The College employs staff to carry out any work that is needed in animal husbandry outside of College hours. Students are given reasonable leisure time each day.

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The college makes satisfactory provision for the welfare of any young people aged

under 18 it accommodates who are not its own students. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 9 This standard does not apply to this College. Oaklands College Page 28

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educational day, are competently supervised and accompanied by adequate and

appropriate safety measures. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 1 Staff spoken to said that they had carried out regular risk assessments in their own departments and these were unavailable for inspection. Students are not allowed to engage in the use high-risk equipment without the supervision of a trained adult. The College must review its approach to Health and Safety and conduct risk assessments on all aspects of student’s activities within the college and outside activities for which the College is responsible. It should also ensure it has parental consent for students to participate in any high-risk activities.

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freedom to participate in student activities and to access local facilities outside the

college. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 The student welfare staff in the College supervise the student’s activities within the College. Students leaving the Campus must sign out and state where they are going, the activity they will be involved in and what time they are expected to return and contact details. The College must formulate a ‘missing students’ procedure for both staff and students to follow. Students are checked to ensure they are in bed after lights out. While it is appreciated that welfare staff do not follow a regular routine in checking all students are in bed, the College is advised that a spot check should be introduced to ensure students stay in bed and do not abuse the present system. No students over 18 share activities with students under 18. Oaklands College Page 29

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The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

• Students are adequately supervised by staff. • Staff responsible for residential students have specific residential and welfare duties, with adequate induction and continued training. • Staff following clear residential and welfare policies and practice look after students. • Sound relationships between staff and students. • Students' personal privacy is respected. • There is careful selection and vetting of all staff and volunteers working with students. • Students are protected from unsupervised contact with adults who have not been subject to the college's complete recruitment checking procedures.

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which member of staff is responsible for them and are able to contact them when

necessary. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Students were familiar with all members of the staff who were responsible for their welfare and how to contact them. An appropriate level of supervision is provided by the college and sufficient numbers of staff are trained in emergency first aid to ensure that one is on duty at all times. The college has access to the County Council list of approved taxi firms when their own transport is not being used to transport students. Oaklands College Page 30

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responsibilities when newly appointed, and receive regular review of their

supervisory and student welfare practice, with opportunities for continuing training. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 All new staff with responsibilities for the supervision of students receive appraisal three times in the first year as part of the thorough induction and probationary process. All have full job descriptions that are read in conjunction with their latest appraisal to ensure the most recent agreements are followed. There are also suitable arrangements for the supervision of ancillary and temporary staff. All staff that may come in contact with students have received guidance on child protection. Students are supported by Student advisors as well as an academic personal tutor. The College staff development programme ensures that all staff access and receive appropriate training (this is one of the outcomes of the assessment process).

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single document.)

Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The current staff handbook is also available to staff on the intranet. The handbook includes the policy on countering bullying as well as the approach to sanctions and the student complaint procedure. There is also a students’ handbook that covers most aspects of student life, but is not yet regarded by the College as a finished document. Oaklands College Page 31

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There are sound staff/student relationships including an understanding of respective

roles, rights and responsibilities. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Students were confident that disagreements between student and staff would be concluded reasonably. Relationships and communication between staff and students (and vice versa) appeared to be satisfactory.

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Standard 33 (33.1 - 33.3)

Staff supervision of students avoids intruding unnecessarily on students' privacy. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Although some students stated that cleaning staff can be regarded as sometimes being intrusive and that late checks by staff often disturb their sleep, overall a reasonable balance between security, necessary routines and students’ rights appears to be achieved. However, this report includes suggestions about the pattern of night checks by staff. Oaklands College Page 32

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to their role with a satisfactory outcome. There is a satisfactory recruitment process

recorded in writing. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The college has been primarily using List 99 because of problems experienced with the Criminal records Bureau. All staff complete a disclaimer and CRB clearance is obtained for all newly appointed staff before they have unsupervised access to students. A risk assessment is also undertaken in relation to all staff prior to CRB clearance being received. The system for recruiting all staff accords with this standard. All staff also receive a copy of the staff handbook and the child protection policy. From April 2002, all adults who begin to live on campus but are not employed by the college have also been CRB cleared. This also applies to other adults (such as agency teachers, visiting physiotherapists and taxi drivers) who regularly come into contact with students.

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unless that member of staff has been satisfactorily checked with the Criminal Records

Bureau. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 As detailed in the preceding standard, the college takes appropriate precautions. Oaklands College Page 33

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The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

• Students are provided with satisfactory living accommodation. • Students have their own living accommodation, secure from public intrusion. • Any security or surveillance measures provide security to protect students without compromising their privacy. • Students have satisfactory sleeping accommodation. • Students have adequate and adequately private toilet and washing facilities. • Students have access to a range of recreational areas. • Students are given reasonable protection from safety hazards. • Students are suitably accommodated when ill. • There are arrangements to ensure that student’s clothing and bedding are adequately laundered. • Students can buy food and personal requisites while accommodated at college. • The welfare of students placed by the college in lodgings is safeguarded and promoted. • The welfare of students is safeguarded and promoted while accommodated away from the college site on a short stay basis.

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suitably furnished, accessible to any students accommodated who have disabilities,

and adequately decorated, cleaned and maintained. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 Student residential accommodation throughout the campus comprises domestic dwelling houses and each is lit and heated in keeping with properties of this style. Disabled students could not be accommodated without adaptations being carried out. Overall, the furnishings were suitable for the purpose although greater attention to the provision of dining room furniture could lead to a better community spirit in each house as well as fulfilling the obvious need of providing somewhere comfortable to eat. Students do travel significant distances between their accommodation and many of the facilities available, (e.g. it is ¼ mile from the main building to the nearest bus stop), but many of the students also own their own transport. Oaklands College Page 34

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As far as is practicable, students’ residential accommodation is reserved for the use

of those students designated to use it, and protected from access by the public. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 The student houses are as secure as any domestic dwelling although there is public through traffic to the front of the East Drive properties. The college is adding to the external lighting to increase safety and security although it was also pointed out that the introduction of net curtains would also increase privacy from passers by. Facilities on campus do not enable unauthorised access to the students.

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safety and welfare, but does not compromise or intrude upon their reasonable

privacy. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The college does not use CCTV equipment but there is a member of security staff on patrol until 11.00 p.m. and the local police can be relied upon to respond quickly when summoned. It is suggested that the security officer makes himself known to the students or wears clearly identifiable clothing to ensure that he is not mistaken for an intruder. Oaklands College Page 35

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Student bedrooms are suitably furnished and of sufficient size for the accommodation

and needs of the students accommodated. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Student bedrooms were personalised by the occupants and appeared to be clean and suitably furnished. All students have their own bedroom. As detailed in standard 36 (above), students are accommodated in domestic dwelling houses. Students confirmed that they were adequately heated and ventilated and that each bedroom door was lockable. The provision of curtains and net curtaining needs to be reviewed.

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Adequate toilet and washing facilities should be readily accessible to students, with

appropriate privacy. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Toilet and washing facilities in each house are adequate for the needs of the occupants. And none of the students is disabled. Students confirmed that there is a suitable supply of hot water. Oaklands College Page 36

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Students have access to a range and choice of safe recreational areas, both indoors

and outdoors. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 In the main complex, there is a fitness centre with a good range of equipment. There is also a common room that has comfortable seating, a pool table indoor tennis, darts and a television set (that can be used to play video or DVD). Externally, students have access to the ‘Astroturf’ pitches and the playing fields. Students have access to their own bedrooms at all times.

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Indoor and outdoor areas used by, or accessible to, students are free from reasonably

avoidable safety hazards. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 The gymnasium is only available to students if there is a supervisor available for safety purposes. Outside lighting is being upgraded and the inspection team suggested a suitable location for an additional freestanding streetlight in East Drive. Road surfaces are pitted and could cause a trip hazard at night. There are mobile ‘phones in each of the houses for use in an emergency.

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Standard 43 (43.1 - 43.2)

Suitable accommodation and care area available for the care of students who are ill. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 There is a first aid room in the Housekeeper’s office, which is well equipped for the purpose. There is a ‘holding facility’ for one student at a time. This has a wash-hand basin and there are toilets located nearby. However, this is intended as a short-term facility as students who are unwell would either go home to recover or be taken to hospital. Oaklands College Page 37

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Standard 44 (44.1 - 44.4)

Adequate laundry provision is made for students' clothing and bedding. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The college has provided a laundrette facility in one of the main buildings and students can obtain the key to this facility from the reception (where they can also obtain tokens for the machines).

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Students are able to purchase basic foods and minor necessary personal and

stationery items while accommodated at college. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 In the refectory, there are vending machines available to students to purchase drinks and snacks. The refectory also sells minor necessary personal and stationary items. Oaklands College Page 38

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provide satisfactory accommodation and supervision, are checked by the college

before use, and are monitored by the college during use. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 9 The college is not arranging lodgings at present.

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provides satisfactory accommodation and supervision, is checked by the college,

where reasonably practicable, before use, and is monitored by the college during use. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 9 The college does not use short-stay accommodation off site. Oaklands College Page 39

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(Where Applicable)

A Lay assessor was not present on this occasion.

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D.1 Principal’s comments/confirmation relating to the content and accuracy of the

We would welcome comments on the content of this report relating to the Inspection conducted on 27 th and 28 th January 2004 and any factual inaccuracies:

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D.1 Principal’s comments/confirmation relating to the content and accuracy of the

Please limit your comments to one side of A4 if possible

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D.1 Principal’s comments/confirmation relating to the content and accuracy of the

A copy of the provider's response can be obtained from the Area Office . Oaklands College Page 41

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Action taken by the NCSC in response to Principal’s comments:

Amendments to the report were necessary NO

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Action taken by the NCSC in response to Principal’s comments:

Comments were received from the provider YES

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Action taken by the NCSC in response to Principal’s comments:

Principal’s comments/factual amendments were incorporated into the final inspection report

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Action taken by the NCSC in response to Principal’s comments:

YES Principal’s comments are available on file at the Area Office but have not been incorporated into the final inspection report. The inspector believes the report to be factually accurate

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Note:

In instances where there is a major difference of view between the Inspector and the Principal both views will be made available on request to the Area Office.

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are to be addressed and stating a clear timescale for completion. This will be

kept on file and made available on request.

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report:

Action plan was received at the point of publication YES

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report:

Action plan covers all the statutory requirements in a timely fashion YES

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report:

Action plan did not cover all the statutory requirements and required further discussion

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report:

Provider has declined to provide an action plan

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report:

Other: <enter details here> Oaklands College Page 42

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conducted on the above date(s) and that I agree with the recommended

actions made and will seek to comply with these.

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Date

Note: In instance where there is a profound difference of view between the Inspector and the Principal both views will be reported. Please attach any extra pages, as applicable.

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