Setting

St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf

Church Street Boston Spa Wetherby West Yorkshire LS23 6DF

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St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf

27th January 2004 Residential Special School (not registered as a Children’s Home)

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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. St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 1

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Address

Church Street, Boston Spa, Wetherby, West Yorkshire, LS23 6DF Email Address:

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Type of school

Date of last boarding welfare inspection: 25/02/03

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Type of school

Date of Inspection Visit 27th January 2004 ID Code

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Type of school

Name of NCSC Inspector 1 Dave Stanford 071351

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time of inspection

St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 2

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D.3. Head’s agreement

St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 3

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

Residential Special Schools are subject to inspection by the National Care Standards Commission (NCSC) to determine whether the welfare of children (i.e. those aged under 18) is adequately safeguarded and promoted while they are accommodated by the school.

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

Inspections assess the extent to which the school is meeting the National Minimum Standards for Residential Special Schools, 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. Residential Special Schools are not registered as children’s homes unless they accommodate, or arrange accommodation for, one or more children for more than 295 days a year.

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

This document summarises the inspection findings of the NCSC in respect of St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf 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 school • Advisory recommendations on boarding welfare • Summary of the findings • Report of the lay assessor (where relevant) • The Head’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. St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 4

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BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SCHOOL AND RESIDENTIAL PROVISION

St. John’s School for the Deaf is a residential and day school for pupils aged from 3 to 19 years of age. The school places emphasis on developing the spoken language using a method known as the Maternal Reflective Method. The school offers initial part-time placements, if appropriate, moving through managed stages to full time. The curriculum is based on the National Curriculum and all the teachers are qualified Teachers of the Deaf. There are now six ‘house’ groups for boarders with a mixed gender numbering between seven to no more than twelve children. Within this resource there is a post 16 group which has newly refurbished accommodation. Classrooms are acoustically treated and are equipped with group hearing aid systems. There is an on site audiology centre and full time audiologist. In addition, there are also four speech and language therapists and a psychologist available to the school. The school’s ethos is based on Christian values,

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BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SCHOOL AND RESIDENTIAL PROVISION

though children of all faiths are admitted to the school. St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 5

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WHAT THE SCHOOL DOES WELL IN BOARDING WELFARE

The school provides a safe environment in which boarders are supported and enabled to develop their self esteem and confidence. This is achieved through positive reinforcement of appropriate behaviour and good communication between the boarders and staff. The activities available on evenings and weekends offer many stimulating and varied opportunities that can also provide appropriate challenges to the boarders through a diverse range of cultural and physical experiences. The school also maintains good contact with parents and guardians, keeping them informed and supported about their children on matters of care and welfare and also about the school’s performance.

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WHAT THE SCHOOL SHOULD DO BETTER IN BOARDING WELFARE

Whilst the school has appropriate policies and procedures in place to ensure the recording of incidents, sanctions and complaints, there is an inconsistency in the manner in which information is recorded and managed, particularly in relation to potentially serious issues. All relevant staff should understand the proper responses required to ensure information is appropriately notified, recorded and responded to in a timely and correct manner.

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CONCLUSIONS AND OVERVIEW OF FINDINGS ON BOARDING WELFARE

St John’s School for the Deaf continues to suitably provide for the welfare and well being of the boarders. The ethos of the school, as expressed in the information provided through the admission process, allows for the proper development of the boarders set within a comfortable, safe family atmosphere, promoting a proper sense of discipline and mutual respect. There is a wide range of stimulating after hours activities and a genuine and comfortable rapport with the boarding staff. The facilities within the school continue to be developed and provide sufficient comfort, with the communal and private areas presenting a lively and personalised environment. There is a continual renewal and refurbishment programme so that the furnishings, fittings and décor remain up to a satisfactory standard. The policies, procedures and records required to be maintained by the school were generally up to date and in good order, however the recording of incidents, sanctions and complaints

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CONCLUSIONS AND OVERVIEW OF FINDINGS ON BOARDING WELFARE

were found to be inconsistently maintained. Once again there was a good sense of helpful collaboration, with the headmaster, head of care and care staff, all of whom provided useful information in a manner that was both cooperative and frank; they respond well to issues raised at the inspection. St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 6

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Children Act 1989 arising from this inspection?

Notification to be made to: Local Education Authority NO Secretary of State NO

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IMPLEMENTATION OF RECOMMENDED ACTIONS FROM LAST INSPECTION

Recommended Actions from the last Inspection visit fully implemented? YES

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implemented are listed below:

No Standard Recommended actions Timescale for action St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf 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 boarders adequately in accordance with the National Minimum Standards for Residential Special Schools. 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 RS3 The head of care must ensure that all staff are clear on how sensitive information should be stored and managed. 30/06/04

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RECOMMENDED ACTION

2 RS4 The school should ensure that there is a properly maintained book to record any complaint and the subsequent outcome. 01/04/04

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RECOMMENDED ACTION

3 RS5 The head of care, as the named child protection co- ordinator for the school, should ensure that there is a clear understanding amongst all staff of the proper responses necessary to any allegations of abuse. 30/06/04

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RECOMMENDED ACTION

4 RS10 The sanctions book has to be properly maintained and regularly monitored for compliance. 01/04/06

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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 school. No Refer to Standard* Recommendation

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ADVISORY RECOMMENDATIONS

None from this Inspection Note: You may refer to the relevant standard in the remainder of the report by omitting the 2-letter prefix. E.g. RS10 refers to standard 10. St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 8

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS AND FINDINGS

The following inspection methods were used in the production of this report

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS AND FINDINGS

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

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS AND FINDINGS

Checks with other Organisations • Social Services NO • Fire Service NO • Environmental Health NO • DfES NO • School Doctor NO • Independent Person NO • Chair of Governors NO Tracking individual welfare arrangements YES Survey / individual discussions with boarders YES Group discussions with boarders YES Individual interviews with key staff YES Group interviews with House staff teams YES Staff Survey YES Meals taken with pupils YES Early morning and late evening visits YES Visit to Sanatorium / Sick Bay NO Parent Survey YES Placing authority survey NO Inspection of policy/practice documents YES Inspection of records YES Individual interview with pupil(s) YES Answer-phone line for pupil/staff comments NO

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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.) 8 Number of Inspector Days spent on site 1

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Pre-inspection information and the Head’s Self evaluation Form, provided by the

school, have also been taken into account in preparing this report. St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 9

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SCHOOL INFORMATION

Age Range of Boarding Pupils From 3 To 19

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NUMBER OF BOARDERS AT TIME OF INSPECTION:

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 standards have been met or not met by placing the assessed level alongside the phrase "Standard met?"

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NUMBER OF BOARDERS AT TIME OF INSPECTION:

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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NUMBER OF BOARDERS AT TIME OF INSPECTION:

"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. St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 10

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The intended outcome for the following standard is:

• Children, parents, staff and placing authorities have access to a clear statement of the school's care principles and practice for boarding pupils.

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Approved Arrangements and school prospectus, which are required to include

specific information. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The school has a clear, well written and comprehensive loose leaf colour brochure that provides a range of information about the school, its facilities and ethos and also includes a statement of purpose. This statement adequately describes what the school sets out to do in terms of its methods of teaching and care and the expectations of pupils’ conduct. The headmaster remains committed to developing and refining this document over time. St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 11

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The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

• Children are encouraged and supported to make decisions about their lives

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and to influence the way that the school is run. No child should be assumed

to be unable to communicate their views. • Children's privacy is respected and information about them is confidentially handled. • Children's complaints are addressed without delay and children are kept informed of progress in their consideration.

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key decisions which are likely to affect their daily life and their future. Feedback is

given following consultations. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 There are regular meetings held in each ‘house’ where issues and matters of routine and choice are made. Decisions are noted and minutes are taken, usually by one of the young people. An example was seen during the inspection. Discussions with the service users are actively sought in order to ascertain their views, as the school places communication skills at the centre of both the curriculum and personal care and development. This point was confirmed in discussion with several boarders. Questionnaires are also used by the school as an alternative method to determine views. Each boarder has a keyworker, chosen by them and this worker supports the consultation and feedback system within the school. There are good links maintained with parents or guardians. Questionnaires received by the NCSC from several parents confirm this view.

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The school and staff respect a child's wish for privacy and confidentiality so far as is

consistent with good parenting and the need to protect the child. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 Records are kept properly and secure; some information is retained in the headmaster’s office. Discussions have been held between teaching staff and the head of care on the Data Protection Act and the manner in which information about pupils should be properly shared. There was, however, an incident which was found to be written up in an inappropriate place. An attempt was then subsequently made to erase the record (unsuccessfully), which only served to compound the error. The head of care must ensure that all staff are clear on how sensitive information should be stored and managed. St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 12

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living in the school, and feel confident that any complaint is addressed seriously and

without delay. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 Regular training continues both within the school and by external trainers to support staff and to underpin the ‘whistle blowing’ policy. The complaints procedure is now more in evidence and is ‘posted’ in all the school boarding houses and reference is made within the introductory information provided to parents by the school. The school operates a positive behaviour policy and regular meetings are held with the head of care and senior managers in order to monitor any concerns. The school should ensure that there is a properly maintained book to record any complaint and the subsequent outcome.

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months:

Number of above complaints substantiated: 0

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months:

Number of above complaints substantiated: 0 St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 13

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The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

• The welfare of children is promoted, children are protected from abuse, and an appropriate response is made to any allegation or suspicion of abuse. • Children are protected from bullying by others. • All significant events relating to the protection of children accommodated in

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the school are notified by the Head of the school to the appropriate

authorities. • Children who are absent without authority are protected in accordance with written guidance and responded positively to on return.

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suspicions or allegations of abuse are properly responded to. These are known and

understood by all staff (including junior, ancillary, volunteer and agency staff). Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 There is a policy in place to support the school and care staff in preventing and managing suspicions and allegations of abuse. Appropriate training has been made available to staff. These are particularly sensitive issues and the head of care, as the named child protection co-ordinator for the school, must ensure that there is a clear understanding of the proper responses required.

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familiar and which is effective in practice. Where possible children in the school

contribute to the development of the policy. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 There were several examples of how the school supports and manages its anti-bullying policy. Information is provided to the boarders and pupils in various ways. There is a recently introduced updated policy and this has been made available to all the school staff. A record of any allegations of bullying is kept, along with any actions that were found to be necessary.

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familiar and which is effective in practice. Where possible children in the school

Percentage of pupils reporting never or hardly ever being bullied 100 % St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 14

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All significant events relating to the protection of children in the school are notified by

the Head of the school or designated person to the appropriate authorities. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 A discussion held was held with both the headmaster and head of care on interpretations of the requirements within the notifications. This appears to have clarified some of the discrepancies noted in the information examined during this inspection.

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NUMBER OF THE FOLLOWING NOTIFIED TO NCSC DURING THE LAST 12 MONTHS:

• conduct by member of staff indicating unsuitability to work with children 0 • serious harm to a child 0 • serious illness or accident of a child 0 • serious incident requiring police to be called 0

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The school takes steps to ensure that children who are absent from the school

without consent are protected in line with written policy and guidance. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The school has a clear policy on absenteeism and good links with parents on this issue. As a consequence this matter is rarely a problem. There are clear registration procedures for staff to follow and if a service user has not arrived by mid morning then parents are contacted. There are also various methods of communication used which allows boarders to indicate their whereabouts at all times.

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the past 12 months:

St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 15

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The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

• Children have sound relationships with staff based on honesty and mutual respect. • Children are assisted to develop appropriate behaviour through the

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understanding and clear professional and personal boundaries which are effective for

both the individuals and the group. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Positive relationships were observed between the staff and young people. There were several instances noted where the young people appeared quite relaxed in their manner and were encouraged to communicate in a way that was supportive and responsive to their needs.

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is regarded as unacceptable by staff, it is responded to by constructive disciplinary

measures which are approved by the Head of Care. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 The school operates a positive behaviour policy. This creates incentives to support acceptable and good behaviour. There are clear guidelines on the disciplinary measures available and whilst consistency is aimed for it is also recognised that each situation requires assessing and that flexibility has its place. The sanctions book was, however, not properly maintained. There were an inconsistencies in the manner in which matters were recorded and there were significant gaps in time between some of the records, which suggests this book is not used correctly. This record should be reviewed at least twice a term in order to ensure compliance with the sanctions guidelines, to identify any patterns of behaviour amongst pupils and also to check the record is completed correctly. St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 16

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The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

• Children experience planned and sensitively handled admission and leaving processes. • The school's residential provision actively supports children's educational progress at the school. • Children have ample opportunity to engage in purposeful and enjoyable activities both within school and in the local community. • Children live in a healthy environment and the health and intimate care needs of each child are identified and promoted. • Children are provided with healthy, nutritious meals that meet their dietary needs. • Children wear their own clothing outside school time, can secure personal

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appropriate, with parents and carers and placing authorities – as far as possible and

handled with sensitivity and care by those concerned. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 One staff member is a link person to liaise with any placing authority. Written information is provided to the young person and parents at the time of admission. A ‘new parents’ day is arranged approximately two months into the placement so that any issues can be raised in an informal way. All the boarders have educational statements.

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education, ensuring regular attendance, punctuality and a minimum of interruption

during the school day. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The residential provision balances and compliments the educational progress of each service user. They are supported within an atmosphere that encourages learning and discussions with care staff indicated a good awareness of individual boarders’ educational needs. Activities provided within the residential provision are chosen to support and enhance educational progress. Older boarders are assisted in developing and learning independent living skills. St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 17

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Children have ample opportunity to engage in purposeful and enjoyable activities

both within the school and in the local community. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 4 There is an excellent range of activities promoted by the care staff, some designed specifically to develop or extend particular social skills. The boarders are encouraged to contribute with ideas and to actively participate. There are ‘theme’ nights, where there is an opportunity to explore different cultures and other events which require involvement with the local community and the use of external amenities. There were many good examples of a creative and inventive use of the facilities available within the school.

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The school actively promotes the health care of each child and meets any intimate

care needs. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The school has a nurse, audiologist and speech therapists available. Records are properly maintained of the health needs, contained within a health plan, for each boarder. There was evidence of regular contact between parents and the medical section. The school is properly equipped to manage any first aid needs and can secure effective medical requirements if necessary.

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health, religious persuasion, racial origin or cultural background are met, including

the choice of a vegetarian meal for children who wish it. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 A meal was taken at the inspection. There was adequate, suitable and nutritious food available, which was provided in an appropriate environment. There is a good range of food available over each week and choices within each meal. Special dietary needs are catered for and it is available for boarders to be supported and monitored in preparing their own drinks and snacks.

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Children are provided for adequately on an individual basis and encouraged to

exercise their own preferences in the choice of clothing and personal requisites.

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their money are provided with the assistance they need, in a way which maximises

their choice. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The ethos of the school is to encourage and extend independence amongst the boarders. This has led to the development of the facilities for the sixteen plus age group, which allows for a significant control and exercise of choice on a wide range of issues. St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 18

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The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

• Children have their needs assessed and written plans outline how these needs will be met while at school. • Children's needs, development and progress is recorded to reflect their individuality and their group interactions. • There are adequate records of both the staff and child groups of the school. • In accordance with their wishes, children are able and encouraged to maintain contact with their parents and families while living away from home at school. • Children about to leave care are prepared for the transition into independent living. • Children receive individual support when they need it.

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that child in accordance with that plan, monitors progress in relation to that plan, and

updates that plan as necessary. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 A number of files were inspected and each contained care plans and suitable placement plans. A keyworker is appointed for each admission and the boarders are supported in making written contributions to their information and at the regularly held reviews.

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which can, in compliance with legal requirements for safeguards, be seen by the

child. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 All these records required to be kept are available and there have been improvements made in the way the files are kept, allowing for easier access. Information is held, managed and stored in a more straightforward and efficient way. The good work done thus far should be continued to be reviewed and built on.

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The school maintains clear and accurate records on the staff and child groups of the

school, and major events affecting the school and children resident there. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 As with the previous standard the records are available, well maintained and up to date and work should continue to ensure they are maintained in a manner that allows for efficient accessibility. St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 19

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to maintain contact with their parents and other family members (unless there are

welfare concerns) while living at school. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Parents are made welcome to visit St John’s and there is a visitors’ area where parents can stay overnight. Childcare reviews are so arranged as to enable parents to attend. Information received from a number of parents indicate that they are satisfied with the level of communication and contact available through the school.

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is expected to leave care or move to independent living. The school works with any

Personal Advisor for the child. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The school works with older boarders and parents to support their move onto independent living. The daily life within the school for these older boarders supports the development of appropriate life skills.

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children identified as having particular support needs, or particular problems, receive

help, guidance and support when needed or requested. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The school works to ensure that all boarders engage together and concentrates on the development of good communication and social skills. There is a psychologist available who provides specific support to the teaching and boarding staff and with direct work with the service users. The school now also provides EFL support. The head of care is seen as safe and approachable and provides a flexible and respected resource for the boarders. St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 20

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The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

• Children live in well designed, pleasant premises, providing sufficient space and facilities to meet their needs. • Children live in accommodation that is appropriately decorated, furnished and maintained to a high standard, providing adequate facilities for their use. • Children are able to carry out their ablutions in privacy and with dignity. • Children live in schools that provide physical safety and security.

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environment most helpful to each child's development, and is sufficient for the

number of children. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 St John’s School is suitably and conveniently located for its purpose. It is a large building set in well kept grounds and provides a safe environment for young people with a hearing impairment. Over the years the premises have been adapted and developed to meet changing needs and expectations. There is an on-going refurbishment programme with new features being added to enhance the provision of services for pupils and boarders. The school has excellent links with the community and is well supported by local groups and by the board of governors. The environment is designed to enable communication for the hearing impaired, with such features as; acoustic tiles to cut down ambient noise, minicom adaptations and induction loops. The size of the school requires that there is regular upkeep and maintenance to the fabric of the building.

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The school provides adequate good quality and well-maintained accommodation for

boarding pupils, which is consistent with their needs. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Boarders are given a say in the décor of their bedrooms and, whilst some are dormitory facilities, they are well presented and personalised. Older boarders have their own separate boarding provision. Communal areas are properly maintained and a refurbishment programme continues to enhance the existing features. The furnishings and fittings are suitable for their purpose, with pleasing homely touches to ‘warm’ the environment. Boarders also have access to computers and other facilities for use outside school time. St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 21

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suitable to meet the needs of the children. The school has appropriate changing and

washing facilities for incontinent children where necessary. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 There are sufficient bathrooms and toilets for the service users. Work is ongoing to modernise and personalise the showers and bathrooms, to enhance the privacy of these areas.

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and other hazards, in accordance with Health and Safety and Fire legislation and

guidance. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 A report from the fire office made a range of recommendations which the school is acting upon. New fire doors have been fitted and some of the fire alarm equipment has been brought up to date. There are proper alarm tests and drills performed by the school. St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 22

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The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

• There are careful selection and vetting of all staff, volunteers, and monitoring

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abusers

• Children are looked after by staff who understand their needs and are able to meet them consistently. • Children are looked after by staff who are trained to meet their needs. • Children are looked after by staff who are themselves supported and guided in safeguarding and promoting the children's welfare.

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or Enhanced level as appropriate to their role in the school), with a satisfactory

outcome. There is a satisfactory recruitment process recorded in writing. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The school operates an appropriate vetting and selection procedure for all staff, including volunteers. All staff and the board of governors have completed CRB checks.

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specified under standard 28.2. Records of staff actually working in the school

demonstrate achievement of this staffing level. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The school’s staffing levels are appropriate to fulfil the statement of purpose. An increase in the number of boarders to the school has seen a greater demand on the staffing resource and the school is responding to this. St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 23

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Staff receive training and development opportunities that equip them with the skills

required to meet the needs of the children and the purpose of the school. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Each member of staff has a professional development plan to support their training needs. An induction programme for new staff was seen. Training available includes an introduction into working with the deaf and there are regular joint training sessions arranged with teaching staff, though care must be taken to ensure that all training remains relevant to the needs of the care staff.

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All staff, including domestic staff and the Head of the school, are properly

accountable and supported. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Discussions held with a group of staff indicated sufficient and regular supervision is provided. St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 24

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The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

• Children receive the care and services they need from competent staff. • Children enjoy the stability of efficiently run schools. • The governing body, trustees, local authority, proprietor or other responsible body monitors the welfare of the children in the school.

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The school is organised, managed and staffed in a manner that delivers the best

possible childcare. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 There is a continued increase in the number of staff developing NVQ competencies. The head of care has an appropriate management qualification and is in the process of obtaining the appropriate care competencies.

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must make sure that the operation of the school meets the requirements of these

standards in relation to the day to day running of the school. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The headmaster is aware of this requirement.

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receive a written report on the conduct of the school from a person visiting the school

on their behalf every half term. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The governing body has a clear working relationship with the headmaster and a representative from the governors now visits the school regularly on a half term basis. At a recent visit a governor spent an evening with some of the boarders . A report is provided for a governors meeting highlighting appropriate matters for their attention. St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 25

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Date 15 th April 2004

St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 26

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D.1 Head’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 January 2004 and any factual inaccuracies:

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

Please limit your comments to one side of A4 if possible St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 27

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

Comments were received from the provider

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

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

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

Head’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 Head both views will be made available on request to the Area Office. St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 28

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Status of the Head’s Action Plan at time of publication of the final inspection report:

Action plan was received at the point of publication YES

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Status of the Head’s Action Plan at time of publication of the final inspection report:

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

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Status of the Head’s Action Plan at time of publication of the final inspection report:

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

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Status of the Head’s Action Plan at time of publication of the final inspection report:

Provider has declined to provide an action plan

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Status of the Head’s Action Plan at time of publication of the final inspection report:

Other: <enter details here> St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf Page 29

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relating to the inspection conducted on the above date 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 Head both views will be reported. Please attach any extra pages, as applicable.

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St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf / 27th January 2004

Commission for Social Care Inspection 33 Greycoat Street London SW1P 2QF

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St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf / 27th January 2004

Telephone: 020 7979 2000 Fax: 020 7979 2111

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St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf / 27th January 2004

National Enquiry Line: 0845 015 0120 www.csci.org.uk

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St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf / 27th January 2004

S0000001535.V112587.R02 © This report may only be used in its entirety. Extracts may not be used or reproduced without the express permission of the Commission for Social Care Inspection

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St John`s Catholic School For The Deaf / 27th January 2004

The paper used in this document is supplied from a sustainable source

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