Setting

West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 1 RESIDENTIAL SPECIAL SCHOOL

p.1

EX2 6HA

Lead Inspector Alison Clark Announced Inspection 22nd January 2007 09:30am West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 2 West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 3 The Commission for Social Care Inspection aims to:

p.1

EX2 6HA

• Put the people who use social care first • Improve services and stamp out bad practice • Be an expert voice on social care • Practise what we preach in our own organisation

p.3

EX2 6HA

Reader Information Document Purpose Inspection Report Author CSCI Audience General Public Further copies from 0870 240 7535 (telephone order line) Copyright This report is copyright Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) and may only be used in its entirety. Extracts may not be used or reproduced without the express permission of CSCI Int n .uk er et address www.csci.org West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 4 f an inspectio to assess whether services are meeting the who use them The legal basis for conducting inspections is 00 a d the relevant National Minimum Standards for se fo Residential Special Schools. They can be found This is a report o eeds of people n . n the Care Standards Act 20 this establishment are tho n r at www.dh.gov.uk or obtained Crispins, Duke Street, Norwic ordering: from The Stationery Office (TSO) PO NR3 1GN. Tel: 0870 600 5522. Online

p.3

EX2 6HA

ild Matters, outlined the government’s vision for children’s services asis of the Ch a framework for t children’s se o he outcomes considered essential to wellbeing in childhood and later life.

p.4

EX2 6HA

response, the Commission f r Social Care Inspection has re-ordered the ational minimum standards for children’s services under the five outcomes, for reporting purposes. A further section has been created under ‘Management’ to cover those issues that will potentially impact on all the outcomes above.

p.4

EX2 6HA

Copies of Every Child Matters and The Children Act 2004 are available from The Stationery Office as above. very Ch E and formed the b spection so tha ildren Act 2004. It provides vices should be judged on their contribution t in r t Those outcomes are:

p.4

EX2 6HA

• Staying safe • En • Making a contribu • Achieving econom nd ei g.

p.4

EX2 6HA

In o n West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 5

p.4

Name of school

West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight

p.5

Name of school

Address Topsham Road Countess Wear Exeter Devon EX2 6HA

p.5

inspection

14 th March 2006. West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 6

p.5

f the School:

he West of England School and College is a non-maintained residential special chool for children and young people with visual impairment and other special

p.6

Brief Description o

T s needs. There are four departments: The Nursery, St David’s House, the Main School and the College, providing education and specialist intervention for 1 children and young people of whom 95 were boarding at the time of this inspection. Boarding is provided in St David’s, the School and in the College 24 hour nursing service is provided in addition to physiotherapy, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy and education in mobility. The S Doctor visits weekly and when called. Other services are arranged as necessary. The four departments are situated on a pleasant, well maintained and level campus on the outskirts of Exeter with easy access to the M5 Motorway and with a frequent bus service to the centre of the city. The West of England School and College has charitable status and is managed by the of Governors. All information provided for the learners is available in B large print. Since the last inspection, there have been significant developments across the

p.6

Brief Description o

whole establishment. The new Senior Management Team has been es and each department has as Executive Manager. The school and college now operate as pre 16 and post 16 across the campus, which has led to integration of what was St. David’s, Main School and College students a staff. The Director of Learner Services manages the nursing care, therapy teams and the new development of Family Support and Assessment. Other members of the Senior Management Team are Director of Education, Director of External Relations, Director of Resources and Director of Quality Assurance. West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 7 he inspection was carried out over 3 days by 3 inspectors, one of whom is a ursing Inspector. The inspection covered hours in early morning and late es and activity mes in the boarding houses. The inspectors were very impressed by the

p.6

Brief Description o

re doing in “our school”. The learners talked freely to the by. reat

p.7

Brief Description o

earners. number of parents completed questionnaires and the inspectors thank them r doing so and for their many positive comments about the school. stionnaires and the inspectors thank them r doing so and their many positive comments about the school.

p.7

Brief Description o

r them to do so. f were still being developed. There are no s to he supervision programme for the nursing staff, continue with the evelopment of the sheet to record the recruitment process and the iscontinuation of using the back door into St. David’s.

p.7

school does well:

on team, the catering team, the ancillary team and the campus management team all play their part in supporting the learners. Communication amongst the various groups of professionals is good and they work together for the welfare of the learners. The school and college are situated in a very attractive location, with public transport nearby.

p.7

SUMMARY

This is an overview of what the inspector found during the inspection.

p.7

SUMMARY

T N evening. The inspectors spent time with learners at meal tim ti confidence of the learners, some of whom were interested to know what the inspectors we inspectors and were not in the least inhibited by staff members being near The Director of Care was most helpful by supplying the inspectors with a g deal of relevant information about the learners, the school and the college. All of this information gave the inspectors a good insight into how thi in the school and college. High standards were found in all campus and members of staff who were spoken with, showed a great commitment to the l A fo A number of learners completed que fo A number of Placing Authorities also completed questionnaires but the Learning and Skills Council felt that it was inappropriate fo The inspectors found that the recommended actions from the inspection o 14/03/06 had been dealt with or major recommendations from this inspection, rather a continuing of plan

p.7

What the

A well managed team of highly motivated and enthusiastic staff, from many disciplines, provide a good level of support to the learners. The administrati West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 8 All planning and reporting is done in great detail, paying attention to the very individual needs of each learner. Work is being done to produce a “front sheet” for each learner to record all essential information and a photograph.

p.7

roved since the last inspection?

college have dealt with the recommendations made at the last spection. art of the procedure for any member of staff who has been volved in an incident of physical restraint. Details of the debriefing are f physical restraint form. he school and college have discontinued the storage of oxygen.

p.8

roved since the last inspection?

he school and college are still working towards 80% of the care staff having

p.8

hat they could do better:

. he back door into St. David’s should not be used as this opens into the edroom area of the students. The sheet to record all the details of the recruitment process should be finalised.

p.8

hat they could do better:

Please contact the Head for advice of actions taken in response to this inspection. The report of this inspection is available from enquiries@csci.gsi.gov.uk

p.8

What has imp

The school and in Debriefing is p in recorded on the record o T Formal supervision for nursing staff is still being arranged. T NVQ3 qualification.

p.8

W

The school and college should continue with the plans to set up formal and regular supervision for the members of the nursing team T b

p.8

W

or by contacting your local CSCI office. The summary of this inspection report can be made available in other formats on request. West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 9

p.8

CO

Actions identified during the inspection

p.9

NTENTS

ecommended R West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 10 ealth and intimate care

p.9

NTENTS

e health of all the learners is promoted

p.10

NTENTS

provision for the learners. Since the last inspection, the school and college have moved away from the medical

p.10

The intended outcomes for these standards are:

• Children live in a healthy environment and the h needs of each child are identified and promoted.(NMS 14) • Children are provided with healthy, nutritious meals that meet their dietary needs.(NMS 15)

p.10

JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s):

14 and 15. Quality in this outcome area is good. This Judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. The learners live in a healthy environment and their health and intimate care needs are identified and promoted. The learners are provided with healthy and nutritious meals that meet their dietary needs.

p.10

EVIDENCE:

The care plan contains all details pertaining to the physical, mental, emotiona and social needs of each learner. All learners are given the appropriate help and support with any health issues. Th through good food, exercise, fresh air, good hygiene and safety. A detailed health plan is in place for every learner. All of the learners are encouraged to have a high standard of personal hygiene. Throughout the inspection, the learners were clean and smart in their school uniforms and the same was t for those learners who wore casual clothing. The school and college have a team of fourteen nu cover for learners throughout the term. Since the last inspection, the Director of Care and the Nursing team have worked hard to implement the recommendations from that report. Professional links have continued over the year, and new links forged with key professionals in skin care and also health protection and promotion. The nursing staff are exploring other links to assist

p.10

EVIDENCE:

with their changing role in the school. This will enable them to keep pace with recent developments and good practice West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 11 odel of health care provision, to a more integrated and community approach. his has benefited the learners as they now receive their regular medication in

p.10

EVIDENCE:

d positive. All of the staff involved in boarding, receive regular first aid training. Parental consent for the administration of first aid and non-prescribed medication is also obtained. Records sampled demonstrated that staff have been fully involved with parents and medical colleagues in maintaining the health needs of the learners. Arrangements for learners to see a doctor or paediatrician are in place. Regular monitoring of each learner’s condition is maintained. A consultant optician holds regular clinics and provides advice and support to staff, learners and parents as needed. Interactions with the learners were respectful of their age and ability, allowing choice as appropriate and demonstrating good communication. All intimate procedures were carried out with privacy and dignity protected. There are call bell systems in the boarding houses. The team of nurses was seen to actively seek to promote the health and well

p.11

EVIDENCE:

being of the learners by accessing specialist advice, support and assessment at the earliest point of need. The school has good links with the local GP practice. The Paediatrician visits weekly to review and assess the students as need requires. Staff said that learners could request to see a same gender doctor, to see them alone or to go to the local surgery. Currently there is no formal psychological input and support. The post became vacant last year and a replacement is starting in April 2007. Since the last inspection, the nursing team have reviewed the use and storage of oxygen in the school. The inspector was informed that, following a risk assessment, it was decided not to have oxygen on the school campus for general use and that learners’ specific instances will be assessed as required. This provides greater safeguards for learners in case of fire. m T the houses and do not need to go to the medical centre 3 times a day. A

p.11

EVIDENCE:

medical room has been created in Dinham House and in Haldon House. To assist with this integration of their health care needs into daily life, the nursing team no longer wear a uniform. Thus a more holistic approach to care is made, which is of enormous benefit to the learners. Supervision within the nursing team continues on an informal basis. Formal supervision has commenced and evidence was seen of clear and full records covering all aspects of practice, together with application to the school’s and college’s philosophy. This is not however done regularly and the team are working towards ensuring that formal supervision takes place twice a term to meet the standards and to provide support for the staff to give best practi care to the learners. A good practice implementation has been that of annual training and competency assessment of staff in the administration of medicines and the treatment of sudden collapse. Staff are currently looking at the skills they

p.11

EVIDENCE:

have and the changes in their role within the school. They are seeking to attend training that is learner focussed and relevant to the vision of the school and college, which is to provide excellent care whilst enabling the learners to be as independent as possible. The care of learners when they are ill is caring an West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 12 ealtimes were well managed by the staff and were social occasions for the arners. The inspectors were impressed by how well the learners interacted ith them. The learners were keen to know why the inspectors were in school . Breakfast, lunch and a were taken with the learners. The catering team works hard to provide a ar d an es, with salad me. Special diets are provided. Learners in their learners had good ap t outst f sta mes to ensure that the learners are eating an appropriate am

p.11

EVIDENCE:

the a crock r any one who might need help and this is given with dignity. The school has set up a S A nut t we M le w and offered information on how happy they were there te v ie d h and nutritious diet for the learners. They know the learners by name elp them to choose their food. There is always a choice of dish available at lunchtime and teati College have similar arrangements, as well as the opportunity to prepare own food. Much of the food is sourced locally. The pe ites. Menus are kept and were seen by an inspector. There are no anding issues from the local Environmental Health Service. Members o supervise mealti ff ount of food. The main dining room in school and other dining rooms on mpus are all appropriately furnished. The learners have cutlery and ery that meets their individual needs. Members of staff are alert fo c

p.12

EVIDENCE:

N G [school nutrition action group] to discuss the issues around food and ion. The group is composed of a cross section of members of staff, as ri ll as a college learner. West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 13

p.12

outcomes for the following standard(s):

live, supported by staff who have been carefully selected.

p.13

The intended outcomes for these standards are:

• Children’s privacy is respected and information about them is confidentially handled.(NMS 3) • Children’s complaints are addressed without delay and children are ke informed of progress in their consideration.(NMS 4) • The welfare of children is promoted, children are protected from abuse, and an appropriate response is made to any allegation or suspicion of abuse.(NMS 5) • Children are protected from bullying by others.(NMS 6) • All significant events relating to the protection of children in the sch are notified by the Head of the school or designated person to the appropriate authorities.(NMS 7) • Children who are absent without authority are protected in accordance with written guidance and responded to positively on return.(NMS 8) • Children are assisted to develop appropriate behaviour through the encouragement of acceptable behaviour and constructive staff responses to inappropriate behaviour.(NMS 10)

p.13

The intended outcomes for these standards are:

• Children live in schools that provide physical safety and security.(NMS 26) • There is careful selection and vetting of all staff, volunteers, and monitoring of visitors to the school to prevent children being exposed to potential abusers.(NMS 27)

p.13

JUDGEMENT – we looked at

3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 26 and 27. Quality in this outcome area is good.

p.13

JUDGEMENT – we looked at

This Judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. The privacy of the learners is respected and information about them is hand confidentially. Learners are aware of how to make a complaint and are protected from abuse and bullying. There are procedures to be followed should a learner be absent without authority. The learners are encouraged to behave in an acceptable manner. The school is a safe place for the learners West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 14 ing and

p.13

JUDGEMENT – we looked at

th parents, thereby being able to deal with any concerns at the

p.14

JUDGEMENT – we looked at

chool to notify the appropriate authorities, including the Commission for Social Care Inspection, of any event relating to

p.14

EVIDENCE:

The school and college provide policies and procedures to support staff in caring for the learners, particularly in the area of privacy and confidentiality. Members of staff were seen to knock on bedroom doors prior to enter bathroom and toilet doors were always closed. All information about the learners was stored in secure cabinets. All members of staff had undergone child protection training and /or vulnerable adult training and knew about sharing information. The learners were able to make and receive telepho calls, letters etc. in private. Some learners had their own mobile phones. There were some learners who needed help from members of staff to make calls. There was accommodation in the school that could be used by visiting parents. All members of staff were aware of the issues around dealing intimately with learners of the opposite gender. There was a policy and procedures, known to staff and learners, on when it might be necessary

p.14

EVIDENCE:

search the possessions of a learner. There is a complaints procedure for the school and college, which is known to members of staff and learners. Members of staff work so closely with the learners that they are able to pick up any unhappiness or distress. Staff are in close touch wi start. The complaints book was seen by the inspectors. A copy of the Local Safeguarding Board handbook was available in the school. There are detailed procedures to deal with child protection issues in the sch These include guidance for members of staff against whom an allegation is made. All members of staff are trained to at least a basic level. More senior staff members are trained to a higher level that befits their position in the school. Child protection training is part of the on going training programme in the school and college. Training is done “in house” as well as provided by external trainers. Senior staff have links with other schools and agencies. All

p.14

EVIDENCE:

members of staff are well aware that the campus is not secure and that learners could be at risk, particularly at night. There are digital locks on the outside doors of the buildings. Bullying is not tolerated within the school and college. There are procedur deal with the issue of bullying. Bullying is discussed in school as well as in the boarding areas. An anti-bullying week is a feature in the school and college programme. This week serves to ensure that the staff and the learners are aware of the importance of being alert to the possibility of bullying happening in the school and college. Members of staff work closely with the learner which means that any bullying would be noticed before it became a major issue. However, care staff and school staff are very aware of how easily bullying can be carried out. There are systems in place for the s West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight

p.14

EVIDENCE:

v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 15 e protection and welfare of the learners. The majority of parents felt that and the school and college was good. he Director of Care explained to the inspectors that the staff work very closely ith the parents of the learners. If a learner is unable to return to school, the arent would telephone the school with the reason why. Should a learner not led procedures to be llowed. This would include informing the senior manager on call. Members f s aff ph g There o deal with behaviour of the learners on e and co exp ct work closely with the learners. Praise is used generously and rewards and privileges re evident throughout the school and college. There is a staged approach to

p.15

EVIDENCE:

o not carry over to boarding time. Records are kept of

p.15

EVIDENCE:

been involved in a holding event. This was an issue raised at ng onal aspect of learning and physical

p.15

EVIDENCE:

tailed risk assessment of all areas of the campus. It is the

p.15

EVIDENCE:

repairs needing attention. The maintenance team deal with day to ay repairs swiftly and efficiently. Fire drills are carried out regularly and fire larms are tested according to advice from the Devon Fire and Rescue Service. aintenance confirmed that the temperature of the water used by controlled. Members of staff use thermometers for the bath ater, just to be extra sure that it is the correct temperature. Medical devices

p.15

EVIDENCE:

with rds Bureau, including the date that the check was sent off th communication between themselves T w p return from work/college or an activity, there are detai fo o t oto have access to information on each learner, which includes a raph. The security of the open campus is under constant review. are clear policies and procedures t th whole of the campus. There is an expectation throughout the school llege that the learners will behave in an acceptable manner. This e ation is supported by caring and sensitive members of staff who

p.15

EVIDENCE:

a unacceptable behaviour and sanctions are rarely used. Sanctions applied in school/college d sanctions and physical interventions. The recording sheet for physical intervention now includes a section to record the debriefing of members of staff who have the previous inspection. The school is looking at its behaviour policy, updati its approach to include the social and emoti intervention. There is a de responsibility of every member of staff to ensure that the learners are safe. The Health and Safety group meet regularly and are kept informed of any issues and d a The Head of M the learners is w and hoists are serviced regularly, according to advice from the manufacturer. Members of the hydrotherapy team maintain the balance of chemicals in the swimming pool. Oxygen is no longer stored in the school. The recruitment of staff is handled initially by “First Stop Desk” at Devon County Council, after which the process is carried out internally. The process

p.15

EVIDENCE:

is carried out satisfactorily. A spreadsheet records the results of checks the Criminal Reco and was returned. Three staff files were inspected. The checklist contained qualifications, health check, two references, identity check, copy of the appointment letter and a copy of the contract. All boxes were ticked on the checklist and some had been initialled and some had a signature, as well. The member of staff responsible said that the checklist was being updated to include all points in Standard 27.2. West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 16

p.15

UDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s):

12,13 and 22. Quality in this outcome area is excellent. This Judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. The residential provision contributes to the educational progress of the learners by giving them an interesting and varied social life, as well as individual support.

p.16

EVIDENCE:

There is good liaison between care staff and the teaching staff in the school and in the college. Teaching staff and care staff meet at the start and end of each school day to pass on relevant information. Members of the care staff reported on the good relationships between themselves and members of the teaching staff. Books, games, craft material etc are available in all the boarding areas. There is a very good choice of activities for learners of all ages. The college learners go the local pubs and clubs etc. The school learners enjoy activities in house and outdoors. Some activities take place off campus and abroad. The school has its own radio station which broadcasts across the campus at various times of the day. There are plans to move the studio to larger premises that will have enough space for guests to be interviewed. Risk assessments were carried out for all activities.

p.16

The intended outcomes for these standards are:

• The school’s residential provision actively supports children’s educational progress at the school.(NMS 12) • Children have ample opportunity to engage in purposeful and enjoyable activities both within the school and in the local community.(NMS 13) • Children receive individual support when they need it.(NMS 22)

p.16

J

The learners were relaxed and happy in the care of members of staff. Staff lt with issues in a calm and laxed manner. Learners were encouraged to do things for themselves and aff did not “take over”. Each learner had a key worker and was able to pproach any member of staff. Examination of the files confirmed that the l and college have been ithout the services of a clinical psychologist for some time. This situation is ei r wil e f were v that the ea deal of o a lea e by q not a dent listener. Senior members of staff con rm whom ues. were alert to the needs of the learners and dea re st a learners enjoyed excellent support systems. The schoo w b ng l b emedied as from April 2007, when the services of a clinical psychologist obtained from the local PCT. Learners confirmed that members of staf ery kind and supportive. It was obvious throughout the inspection, rners and the staff enjoy each other’s company and there is l

p.17

J

fun a great and laughter in the school and college. Any specific therapy given t r is in accordance with the rn a ir written and agreed care plan and provided ualified professional from a recognised organisation. The school does ve the services of an indepen h fi ed that each learner had a least one person, outside of the school, they could contact directly about personal iss

p.17

J

West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 17

p.17

The intended outcomes for these standards are:

• Children are encouraged and supported to make decisions about their

p.18

:

e lives and to influence the way the school is run. No child should be assumed to be unable to communicate their views.(NMS 2) • Children have sound relationships with staff based on honesty and mutual respect.(NMS 9) • Children experience planned and sensitively handled admission a leaving processes.(NMS 11) • Children have their needs assessed and written plans outline how these needs will be met while at school.(NMS 17) • In accordance with their wishes children are able and encouraged to maintain contact with their parents home at school.(NMS 20)

p.18

JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s)

2, 9, 11, 17 and 20. Quality in this outcome area is excellent. This Judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. Excellent admission procedures and placement plans allow staff members to enjoy good relationships with the learners. The learners are enco make decisions about themselves and the school. The learners are able to keep in close contact with their families.

p.18

EVIDENCE:

The staff at the school and college work very closely with the learners and with their parents. There is a great amount of talking between members of the teaching staff and the learners and likewise with the care staff. Learners are encouraged to voice their opinions. Members of staff are adept at communicating with learners who use specific methods of communication. Th learners are encouraged and are able to make choices in every day situations, for example, at mealtimes, what clothes to wear and what activities to attend. West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 18 The Parent Partnership, open to all parents and meeting on exeat Fridays, is effective way of dealing with strategic matters a an s well as furthering ommunication. The school and college use a full range of methods and to effect total communication. Home/school diaries are used to pass on information. House meetings give the

p.18

EVIDENCE:

opportunity for the group of learners to discuss how they would like their living situation to be. The school council also plays an important role in the consultation process. Some learners attend Christian Endeavour meetings and Sunday services. The relationships between the members of the staff groups and the learners are excellent. The various members of staff have high expectations of the learners and the learners are eager to please. This helps to create the caring environment seen by the inspectors throughout their visit. Staff are warm and caring and work within their professional boundaries. All learners are respected as individuals and the learners respect the staff in return. There is a great amount of humour and good hearted teasing when learners and staff are together, for example, during mealtimes. Members of staff receive training in relating to learners with special needs and their families. Learners are able to

p.19

EVIDENCE:

choose who provides their personal care. The school and college have good admission and leaving processes. Admission to the school is carefully planned by all concerned, including the young person. A visit to the school or college is arranged after all the relevant information has been gathered. A flat is available on the campus for a family to use if their home is a distance away from the school. Parents have noted on their questionnaires how welcome they felt at the school and college. The “Welcome Pack” provides a good deal of information about the school and college. This enables the learners to know what they can expect from the school and college. As the admission process is carried out with great care, so is the leaving process. The learners are encouraged to be as independent as possible as they may be moving into their own accommodation. “Connexions” play a large part in the leaving process for some learners.

p.19

EVIDENCE:

Examination of records indicated that reviews are held regularly with a range of professionals, and the learners and parents, invited to attend. Each learner has a placement plan which includes details of education, care and therapy needs. The plan is agreed by the parents, the learner, the school, the placing authority and any other relevant professionals. The plans seen during the inspection were up to date, well maintained and included the required information. The placement plans are maintained by the learner’s key worker and over seen by a team leader. All members of staff are very aware of the need to work to the care plans and to report any change in the learner’s progress or demeanour. The learners are involved in their statutory reviews. The learners are encouraged to keep in contact with their families. There are telephones in the boarding houses and many of the learners have their own

p.19

EVIDENCE:

mobile telephone. Any restrictions on contact with parents or others would be recorded on the learner’s file. Members of staff are in close contact with the parents of the learners. The younger learners go home every weekend and the college learners have one exeat weekend each half term. There are rooms c equipment

p.19

EVIDENCE:

West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 19 where learners may meet with visitors. Members of staff receive training in working with learners and their families.

p.19

EVIDENCE:

West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 20

p.20

The intended outcomes for these standards are:

• Children can wear their own clothing outside school time, can secure personal requisites and stationery while at school, and are helped to look after their own money.(NMS 16) • Children about to leave care are prepared for the transition into independent living.(NMS 21) • Children live in well designed and pleasant premises, providing sufficient space and facilities to meet their needs.(NMS 23) • Children live in accommodation which is appropriately decorated, furnished and maintained to a high standard, providing adequate facilities for their use.(NMS 24) • Children are able to carry out their personal care in privacy and with dignity.(NMS 25)

p.21

JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s):

16, 21, 23, 24 and 25. Quality in this outcome area is good. This Judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. The school is built on a very attractive site, with trees, gardens, walkways, play areas and sports field. Some buildings are more modern than others and all are well maintained and decorated. There are sufficient toilets and bathing areas with specialist equipment as necessary. The learners wore appropriate clothing at all times. Procedures for moving from the school and college were in place.

p.21

EVIDENCE:

The learners were able to buy ersonal bits and pieces locally or when they went in to town. Staff keep a supply for emergencies. Pocket money is handed over to the care of the staff The learners in the school wear uniform with the school logo. They are able t wear their own clothes out of school time. The learners in college wear their own clothes all the time. All of the learners were very well dressed and were neat and tidy at all times. The laundry staff do a very good job to ensure that the students have a supply of clean clothes. p

p.21

EVIDENCE:

West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 21 and is drawn out as required. Learners sign for money drawn out. Some ake care of their own money. he school and college work with the learners, their parents, the placing thorities and other departments to ensure a smooth transition to the next tage of their life. Members of staff reported on the excellent relationships and distant agencies at are concerned with providing for the future needs of the learners. The ta re go a t rather appropriate living, working or educ Th c the u tra , ice of activities for the learners. All buildings are easily accessible, with sliding do t doors. ssible and those which are no D y special equipment, such as wheelchairs, is stored safely. The occupational the p is pos ib of The bo are a dis y the fam are shared and others are single rooms. Some learners prefer to share, as

p.21

EVIDENCE:

ample storage for clothes and each learner as a locked locker for valuables. Learners have space to do homework, write rs. e learners’ bedrooms. The maintenance

p.22

EVIDENCE:

ving. The inspectors were unhappy about a “short cut” into St. David’s, using rea. Staff had already identified this ctors support the plans to insist that e There is a cost implication in this arrangement and the issue will

p.22

EVIDENCE:

the appropriate doors, curtains etc, to rovide privacy for the learners. The bathrooms and toilets in the school and all clean and in good order. learners are able to t T au s that the school and college have built up with the local th s ff ne ported that there have been times when the leaving process has not s well as it should have done. This is through no fault of the school bu that of other agencies e.g. lack of finance, failure to secure an ational setting for the learner. hool and college are situated on the outskirts of the city of Exeter and ildings are arranged in the style of a village. The sp e s b ck orts field, running sensory garden and new state of the art playground all add to the cho

p.22

EVIDENCE:

ors and handrails in place as necessary. There are digital locks on the fron Many of the buildings are wheelchair acce t, [ inham and Haldon], are being considered for refurbishment. An

p.22

EVIDENCE:

ra ist assesses the needs of the learners. The campus is not secure and it le for members of the public to walk around the buildings. The security s the campus is under review. arding houses a p re all well decorated, furnished and maintained. Walls inted in bright colours and the learners are able to put up pictures or pla art work in the public areas. Many of the learners have photographs of ily, friends and pets on the wall in their bedrooms. Some bedrooms

p.22

EVIDENCE:

others prefer to be alone. There is h letters, read, do craft work etc. There is also space to meet with visito Staff sleeping in rooms are near to th team work hard to repair any damage as soon as possible. The college has plans to set up off campus accommodation as a preparation for independent li a door that opened into the bedroom a use as not good practice and the inspe everyone finds an alternative entry to the building. This could be through th school door. be part of the development programme. There are sufficient bathrooms and toilets in the boarding areas to meet the needs of the learners. There are specialist facilities for the learners who need them. Bathrooms and toilets have p college were

p.22

EVIDENCE:

West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 22

p.22

The intended outcomes for these standards are:

• Children, parents, staff and placing authorities have access to a statement of the school’s care principles and practice for boarding pupils.(NMS 1) • Children’s needs, development and progress is recorded to reflect their individuality and their group interactions.(NMS 18) • There are adequate records of both the staff and child groups of the school.(NMS 19) • Children are looked after by staff who understand their needs and are able to meet them consistently.(NMS 28) • Children are looked after by staff who are trained t clear

p.23

The intended outcomes for these standards are:

of needs.(NMS 29) • Children are looked after by staff who are themselves supported and guided in safeguarding and promoting the children’s welfare.(NMS 30 • Children receive the care and services they need from competent staff.(NMS 31) • Children and staff enjoy the stability of efficiently run schools.(NMS 32) • The governing body, trustees, local authority, proprietor or other responsible body monitors the welfare of the children in the school.(NM 33)

p.23

JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s):

1, 18, 19, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32 and 33. Quality in this outcome area is good. This Judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. The school is managed and monitored well. There is an appropriate number staff, who are trained, supervised and supported well. Records at the school, including the Statement of Purpose, learners’ files and staff personnel files, are all maintained to a high standard.

p.23

EVIDENCE:

West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 23 The Statement of Purpose sets out clearly what the school and college seek to achieve with the learners, as well as its ethos and general philosophy. The information is contained in the prospectus, supported by other documentat and a useful video. The information booklets for the learners explain how th school and college function and what can be expected on arrival. The Statement of Purpose and associated documents are reviewed annually by th Board of Governors. Case files and placement plans comply with the standard in al ion e

p.23

EVIDENCE:

and logbooks were seen to be all maintained to a high

p.24

EVIDENCE:

to the ment of Purpose. The staffing establishment is sufficient to meet the eeds of the learners and to keep them safe day and night. Additional staff brought in when necessary and the use of agency staff is kept to a inimum. The school and college endeavour to use adults who are already nown to the learners. A member of the Senior Management Team provides on call cover, out of office hours. The training of staff has a high priority in the school and college. There is a rolling programme of training courses, some of which are carried out in house. Other courses are arranged outside of the school and college. A ten week induction course is undertaken by all new members of staff. Staff reported that this was a very useful course. Members of staff attend training that is pertinent to their role in the school or college. All members of staff have child protection training and fire safety training. Members of staff are able to ask to

p.24

EVIDENCE:

attend courses that would supplement their knowledge appropriate to their role. The Quality Assurance and Human Resources managers are reviewing all training and appraisal issues, including the induction course. Some members of staff are coming to the end of their NVQ3 training and others are awaiting the arrival of the new training provider. Senior staff are working on a revised “front sheet” that will include a photograph of the learner and all relevant details. Each learner has a detailed and confidential record of their history and their progress at the school. The files demonstrate the detailed knowledge that the members of staff have, of the specific needs of every learner. The staff confirmed that entries on to the files are discussed with the learner. The daily record book for each learner has a tactile stiff cover. Whilst these books may be read by the learner and parents, they are kept in the boarding house. There is also a school/home

p.24

EVIDENCE:

book which the learner takes home at weeke protocol in place to enable a learner to read his/her file. The general records kept in the school and college are in excellent order and reflect how well the school is managed in all areas. Accident books, menus, duty rosters, diaries standard. Accidents are recorded in detail and the school informs CSCI of serious illness etc. Menus are kept for at least a year. Duty rosters record names of the members of staff who were on duty. Diaries and logbooks re the daily happenings at the school and college. Criminal Records Bureau information is recorded on a spreadsheet. Senior staff in HR have devised a new form that will indicate that Standard 19.2 has been complied with. Duty rosters indicate that the school and college are staffed according State n are m k

p.24

EVIDENCE:

West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 24 The members of the care staff who were spoken to confirmed that supervision lso commented on how useful ior staff. Members of staff stated that they felt well supported in their task of caring for the learners. r

p.24

EVIDENCE:

ained social worker on the staff. Staff supervision notes ere not read but the infrastructure was seen to be in place. e a an d by ni af they work well together as a team. All members of staff know the clear lines

p.25

EVIDENCE:

staff waiting start. The managers of the school recognise that not 80% of the care staff are qualified to NVQ3 level or equivalent. Duty rotas include time for supervision, meetings, administration tasks etc. There are plans in place to deal wit y crisis in the s ool or co leg There are systems in place carry o the required monitoring of records througho t the school and llege, by eads of Departments. The appropriate action is ta y. The pol e are not involved in the running of the sch e. A governor is appointed to carry out the monitoring visits on behalf of the governing body. Monitoring was discussed in some detail during feedback because one inspector could find evidence o 06. Senior staff were adamant that more had taken place but were unaware that at least one visit had not taken place. The inspector asked if the visits were always unannounced and took place after norm working hours. he reports

p.25

EVIDENCE:

seen were short and to the int and overed vant areas. was arranged and carried out regularly. They a informal supervision is from colleagues and sen

p.25

EVIDENCE:

Regular staff meetings and hand over sessions also provide opportunities fo informal supervision and support. Some of the training in supervision skills was delivered by a tr w The school and colleg re organised, m aged and staffe competent and skilled people. The se or members of st f are trained in their own roles and

p.25

EVIDENCE:

of responsibility and to whom they are accountable. Many of the care staff have the NVQ3 qualification and there is a rolling programme of to

p.25

EVIDENCE:

h an ch l e. to ut u co H ken as necessar ic ool and colleg

p.25

EVIDENCE:

West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 25

p.25

SCORING OF OUTCOMES

his page summarises the assessment of the extent to which the National inimum Standards for Residential Special Schools have been met and uses e following scale.

p.26

SCORING OF OUTCOMES

Standard Exceeded (Commendable) 3 Standard Met (No Shortfalls) Standard Almost Met ( ot Met T M th

p.26

SCORING OF OUTCOMES

2 Minor Shortfalls) 1 Standard N (Major Shortfalls)

p.26

SCORING OF OUTCOMES

“X” in the standard met box denotes standard not assessed on this occasion “N/A” in the standard met box denotes standard not applicable

p.26

SCORING OF OUTCOMES

BEING HEALTHY MAKING A POSITIVE Sta Score ndard No CONTRIBUTION 14 3 Standard No Score 15 4 2 3 9 4 STAYING SAFE 11 4 Standard No Score 17 3 3 3 20 4 4 3 5 3 ACHIEVING ECONOMIC 6 3 WELLBEING 7 3 Standard No Score 8 3 16 3 10 21 4 3 26 3 23 3 27 3 24 3 25 3 ENJOYING AND ACHIEVING Standard No Score MANAGEMENT 12 4 Standard No Score 13 4 1 4 22 4 18 3 19 3 28 3 29 3 30 3 31 3 32 3 33 3

p.26

SCORING OF OUTCOMES

West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 26 West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 27 Are there any outstanding recommendations from the last inspection?

p.26

RECOMMENDED ACTIONS

This section sets out the actions that must be taken so that the proprietor meets the Children Act 1989, Inspection of Schools and Colleges Regulations 2002 and the National Minimum Standards.

p.27

RECOMMENDED ACTIONS

No. Standard Recommendation Timescale for action (Serious welfare concerns only) 1. RS14 The supervision of the nursing staff should be carried out regularly each half term. 2 door of St. David’s should not be used as entry to the house. . RS24 The back

p.27

RECOMMENDED ACTIONS

3 process should record all the details in Standard 27.2 . RS27 The recruitment West Of England School For Children With Little Or No Sight v2 SC_SC022223_20070122.doc Version 5.2 Page 28

p.27

Commission for Social Care Inspection

Ashburton Office Unit D1 Linhay Business Park Ashburton TQ13 7UP

p.28

Commission for Social Care Inspection

National Enquiry Line: Telephone: 0845 015 0120 or 0191 233 3323 Textphone: 0845 015 2255 or 0191 233 3588 Email: enquiries@csci.gsi.gov.uk Web: www.csci.org.uk © This report is copyright Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) and may only be used in its entirety. Extracts may not be used or reproduced without the express permission of CSCI.

p.28