Setting

Cloughwood Special School

Stones Manor Lane Hartford Northwich Cheshire CW8 1NU

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Cloughwood Special School

16th & 17th November 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. Cloughwood Special School Page 1

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Fax No: 01606 783486 Address

Stones Manor Lane, Hartford, Northwich, Cheshire, CW8 1NU

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Type of school

Date of last boarding welfare inspection: 2/3/04 Cloughwood Special School Page 2 Date of Inspection Visit 16th November 2004 ID Code

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Type of school

Name of CSCI Inspector 1 Karen Forster 078194

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Name of Establishment Representative at the

time of inspection Mr Ian McCready Cloughwood Special School Page 3

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

Residential Special Schools are subject to inspection by the Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) 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 CSCI in respect of Cloughwood Special School 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. Cloughwood Special School Page 5

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BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SCHOOL AND RESIDENTIAL PROVISION

Cloughwood Residential School is a purpose built special school, located within extensive grounds on the Mid Cheshire Campus, Hartford.

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BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SCHOOL AND RESIDENTIAL PROVISION

The school offers residential special education to sixty-five boys with emotional and behavioural difficulties or related needs. Residential placements include weekly stays.

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BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SCHOOL AND RESIDENTIAL PROVISION

The school is a community special school maintained by Cheshire County Council educational services.

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WHAT THE SCHOOL DOES WELL IN BOARDING WELFARE

Cloughwood school has undergone extensive changes to the senior management team since the last inspection; the established care staff members have gone through a period of great unsettlement within school and their continued motivation and positive approach to the residential task is to be commended. Relationships between adults and children are based on a mutual respect and a fair individual approach by staff members. The premises are well maintained with little evidence of deliberate damage and graffiti. The students make good use of the school facilities, which include the sports hall, sports field, well equipped classrooms, functional residential areas and dining room. Individual placement planning is thorough and consistent and shared with the stakeholders. The school maintains a very high level of leisure and sporting opportunities for the young people, which the students appreciate and enjoy.

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WHAT THE SCHOOL DOES WELL IN BOARDING WELFARE

The staff team are positive regarding their work and demonstrate a caring approach towards the individuals in their care. The motivated care staff team receive clear direction from the senior management team, which includes experienced practitioners and managers. The behavioural grading system maintained within the school is clearly understood by the students, staff and parents who find the system to be fair and effective. The single place en-suite bedrooms are a positive addition to the residential provision in school. Cloughwood Special School Page 6

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WHAT THE SCHOOL SHOULD DO BETTER IN BOARDING WELFARE

The governing body and senior management team should address the following issues to enhance the welfare provision within the school. Those elements of school record keeping related to physical intervention and monitoring visits by the governing body need attention to meet the standard. Personnel procedures need to include the verification of employment references for staff members and evidence of CRB clearance at enhanced level must be received before care staff members are operational. Formal supervision systems for care staff are required. The health and safety checks on cold water storage and gas boiler systems need attention to meet the standards. The school has already identified that standard criminal background checks are required for resident adults who are not employed within school.

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CONCLUSIONS AND OVERVIEW OF FINDINGS ON BOARDING WELFARE

Cloughwood school effectively addresses the welfare needs of the resident students within a positive and forward thinking culture. Cloughwood Special School Page 7

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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 Cloughwood Special School Page 8

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which indicates how recommended actions are to be addressed. This action plan

will be made available on request to the Area Office.

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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 RS1 The school must provide a student’s guide. 1.1.05

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RECOMMENDED ACTION

2 RS4 The school must develop a complaints policy. 1.1.05

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RECOMMENDED ACTION

3 RS8 The school must provide a written leaving school without authority procedure. 1.1.05

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RECOMMENDED ACTION

4 RS10 The school must ensure that the reference to restrictions of food choices listed within the approved sanctions policy is removed. 1.1.05

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RECOMMENDED ACTION

5 RS10 The school must provide training regarding physical intervention for all school staff. 1.3.05

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RECOMMENDED ACTION

6 RS18 The school must ensure that copies of the loose leaf records of physical intervention are filed within students’ personal records. 17.11.04

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RECOMMENDED ACTION

7 RS26 The school must ensure that the issue with the cold water storage is addressed by an appropriate contractor and records maintained of the same. 1.1.05

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RECOMMENDED ACTION

8 RS26 The school must ensure that annual boiler checks are completed and recorded. 1.1.05

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RECOMMENDED ACTION

9 RS26 The school must ensure that a fridge thermometer is provided within the medication fridge. 1.1.05

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RECOMMENDED ACTION

10 RS27 The school must ensure that evidence of CRB clearance is received in school prior to staff being operational on rota. 17.11.04 Cloughwood Special School Page 9 11 RS30 The school must ensure that half termly supervision sessions are provided for care staff members and records maintained of the same. 1.1.05

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RECOMMENDED ACTION

12 RS30 The school must ensure that the Head of Care receives half termly supervision sessions with records maintained of the same. 1.1.05

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RECOMMENDED ACTION

13 RS32 The school must ensure that internal monitoring checks are completed and recorded. 1.1.05

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RECOMMENDED ACTION

14 RS33 The school must ensure that the external monitoring checks are completed and recorded. 1.1.05

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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

1 RS5 The school should ensure that the child protection policy includes details of the school child protection co-ordinator, a 24 hour referral time scale and details of Cheshire’s ACPC.

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ADVISORY RECOMMENDATIONS

2 RS14 The school should ensure that care staff renew First Aid training at appropriate intervals.

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ADVISORY RECOMMENDATIONS

3 RS23 The school should ensure that the window coverings in the sleeping in flat are replaced.

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ADVISORY RECOMMENDATIONS

4 RS23 The school should ensure that the equipment stored within the sleeping in flat is removed to alternative storage space.

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ADVISORY RECOMMENDATIONS

5 RS26 The school should ensure that the food stored within the unit fridge is stored in line with food hygiene guidance.

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ADVISORY RECOMMENDATIONS

6 RS26 The school should ensure that weekly logs are maintained regarding the safety checks on the vehicles.

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ADVISORY RECOMMENDATIONS

7 RS31 The school should ensure that 80% of care staff are qualified to NVQ level three by 2005.

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ADVISORY RECOMMENDATIONS

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. Cloughwood Special School Page 10 Cloughwood Special School Page 11

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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 YES • Fire Service YES • Environmental Health YES • DfES YES • School Doctor YES • Independent Person NO • Chair of Governors YES 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 NO Staff Survey YES Meals taken with pupils YES Early morning and late evening visits YES Visit to Sanatorium / Sick Bay YES Parent Survey YES Placing authority survey YES Inspection of policy/practice documents YES Inspection of records YES Individual interview with pupil(s) NO Answer-phone line for pupil/staff comments NO

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS AND FINDINGS

Date of Inspection 16/11/04 Time of Inspection 9.30 Duration Of Inspection (hrs.) 17.25 Number of Inspector Days spent on site 2

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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. Cloughwood Special School Page 12

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SCHOOL INFORMATION

Age Range of Boarding Pupils From 8 To 16

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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 CSCI 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. Cloughwood Special School Page 13

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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? 2 Cloughwood school has undergone extensive changes to the senior management team since the last inspection. The head teacher advised the inspector that the new senior management team were in the process of redeveloping the school prospectus, student and staff handbooks. A draft copy of the school’s statement of purpose was provided during this inspection (see recommended action 1). Cloughwood Special School Page 14

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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 The school maintains contact with the relevant people within each student’s network. This includes parents, social workers, personal advisors and health professionals. The feedback within the parental questionnaires referred to some consultation during the changes within school. During the group discussions the students advised the inspector that they knew the reasons for school rules and attended their review meetings to discuss decisions affecting their school career. There was evidence within the placement plans that the care associates provided a key worker system to the individual students. From feedback during the group discussions the young people felt able to approach these key staff with any comments or concerns.

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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? 3 The care staff that were interviewed were clear regarding the need to pass on information disclosed by students which has child protection implications and the acceptable response to the student that confidentiality can not be given in that situation. The students’ records are securely stored within the school office and individual placement plans stored within the duty flats. The responding parents and students indicated that private meeting space is available within the conference room in school or the office space vacated by senior staff members. Single bedroom space was also available for this purpose. Cloughwood Special School Page 15

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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 The students advised the inspector that they would address any complaints to the Head Teacher and provided evidence through their feedback that the issues did receive attention. Access was also available to the key workers. There was no evidence of a school complaints policy as required (see recommended action 2).

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months:

Number of above complaints substantiated: 0

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months:

Number of above complaints substantiated: 0 Cloughwood Special School Page 16

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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 was evidence available that the school held a copy of the local authority’s child protection policy handbook for reference. The school’s child protection policy had a small number of gaps, which related to the referral to the local social services department being completed within twenty-four hours of receipt of any information, the details of the school child protection co-ordinator and details of the local Area Child Protection Committee (see advisory recommendation 1). Further procedural guidance is recommended regarding the support of staff following allegations against them personally and the issue of any allegations being made against the internal child protection co-ordinator.

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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 The school maintained a policy regarding bullying, which was clear and covered the categories of bullying and support provided to victims. The policy met the standard and included procedural guidance regarding bullying by staff and external parties. The students advised the inspection team that bullying had been an issue in school and staff members had taken action to address the issues.

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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 X %

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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 The Head Teacher and Head of Care were fully aware of the incidents that required notification to the relevant authorities. The responding parents advised the inspection team that they are notified accordingly. Specialist resources related to personal mental health have been requested historically although receipt of services from the CAMHS service is restricted. The school bursar was fully aware of the Protection Of Children Act requirements and the school maintained procedures to include the names of staff on the list if required.

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NUMBER OF THE FOLLOWING NOTIFIED TO CSCI 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 Cloughwood Special School Page 18

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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? 2 There was evidence of a dedicated school record for episodes of unauthorised absence maintained within a bound logbook. There was evidence of three such episodes and the respective records contained all of the elements listed within the standard. There was no evidence of an internal written procedure in respect to episodes of unauthorised absence (see recommended action 3). However there was evidence within the staff and student interviews that both staff and students were aware of the school procedure following unauthorised absences and that consistent principles were applied following each episode.

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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 There was evidence provided through the premises tour and observation of school routines that the school staff maintained clear expectations of individual behaviour and consistent boundaries were provided for the students. There was evidence provided through the group discussion that the young people understood the rules that were applied and confirmed that they were consistently applied. There was evidence provided through the ‘star’ system that the school adopted an ethos of positive reinforcement with the use of internal achievement awards and positive feedback to the students. There was evidence provided through the staff interviews and observation that the care staff group operated as a close team where peer-support was available and utilised. Cloughwood Special School Page 20

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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 There was evidence maintained within written records and charts posted on the unit’s wall that the school utilised a behaviour grading system, which linked individual behaviour and progress throughout the day and evening to a daily grade, linked to a ‘star’ award. Certain leisure opportunities during the evening were linked to the ‘star’ grades. The responding students found the system clear and fair. During the inspection the young people demonstrated a respectful attitude to adults, which was reciprocated by staff. The school’s draft policy statement: ‘Advice on Good Order and Discipline’; contained details of the approved sanctions for school staff. This list contained reference to a sanction of ‘restrictions of food choices’, which must be removed as the use of food does not meet the standard (see recommended action 4).

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

The school senior management team planned to apply the principles of ‘Team Teach’ as a policy for de-escalation and physical intervention. The whole school training plan includes training in this model. There was evidence provided through the staff interviews that training in the use of physical intervention had not been received to date (see recommended action 5). Cloughwood Special School Page 21

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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 The school’s programme of admission includes a visit by the student and his family to school. The care associates advised the inspector that new resident students would have a core placement plan in place until the student was established within their group, when the plan would be reviewed and updated. There was evidence of written placement plans for the four planned admissions to the new residential group. There was evidence within the school records that the students completed transition meetings after their fourteenth birthday to plan for the end of their school career. The Connexions service is heavily involved with the prospective leavers to identify possible occupation or further education opportunities. Cloughwood Special School Page 22

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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 There was evidence provided through the observations of the morning routines that the care staff facilitated the boys’ preparation for the school day and ensured that relevant information was passed on to the teaching staff. After class the care staff supported the completion of homework, liaising with the lead teacher if required. The individual placement plans developed by the care staff reflected the respective Statement of Special Educational Needs. The daytime educational programme was supported by the work of classroom support workers.

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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? 3 There was evidence provided through the daily records and logbook that the school provided a range of activities for the students both within the grounds or within the local and extended communities. There was pictorial evidence of a residential trip for the students. There was evidence provided through the premises tour that the students had access to musical, computer and television facilities within their leisure time. During the inspection the group completed a shopping trip for food items to prepare for the supper snack, which supported the daily living skills programme. Cloughwood Special School Page 23

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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? 2 A high proportion of the placement plans inspected; referred to the development of social and emotional needs that were identified within each student’s Statement of Special Educational Need. There was evidence of individual health plans and records, copies of which were maintained within the medical room. There was evidence within these records that the school requested details of the student’s medical background from the parents. The school curriculum included the subject material linked to personal, social and health education for each student. There is a no smoking policy in school. The care staff addressed personal needs relating to enuresis sensitively. The provision of first aid boxes was adequate in relation to the numbers of school users and boxes are stored within the mini buses. The training records for the care staff team indicated that First Aid Training for some staff members was is need of renewal (see advisory

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

recommendation 2). The school nursing service was operational within school and screening and immunisation programmes were implemented with parental agreement. The administration of medication was completed by designated staff members and recorded appropriately. The administration of prescribed medication was recorded within individual administration records for each student, records for non-prescribed medication were maintained within a central record. Prescribed medication was securely stored within the school medical room within individual boxes, fitted with photographs of each student. The designated medical beds for the short- term accommodation of ill pupils were provided within a separate area, which met the standard. Personal accidents and injuries were recorded appropriately and in suitable detail.

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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 The lunchtime and teatime meals each day were served within the main dining room; supper and breakfast were prepared and eaten within the lounge areas attached to the residential unit. All of the observed meal times were sociable and interactive sessions. The young people were involved in clearing the tables and staff members shared meal times with the pupils. A choice of hot food was provided at the midday meal and the quality of the meals was good. The local environmental health officer had assessed the kitchen area as satisfactory. The main dining room was furnished to a functional level and had been fitted with a new carpet since the last inspection. The kitchenette attached to the residential unit provided restricted dining space for the unit population. Cloughwood Special School Page 24

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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 students were provided with suitable school uniform and young people provided personal supplies of leisure clothing. School stocks of toiletries were available as required. Pocket money was supplied from home and stored securely within school. Adequate amounts are available according to the planned activity. The newly opened residential unit provided single bedrooms, which were highly personalised upon inspection. Cloughwood Special School Page 25

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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 There was evidence within the care records of individual placement plans for students, which the care associates had developed. The targets were clearly linked to the Statement of Special Educational Needs. The healthcare element of the placement plan was covered by school health plans and historical information, which met the standard. There was evidence within meeting minutes that the care team attended the statutory annual review of the Statement of Special Educational Needs and there were opportunities provided within the placement plans for progress 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? 2 The individual pupil records were maintained between two files, a ‘central’ file and ‘care ‘file. The first being securely stored within the school office and the second set within the care duty flats. The files were well maintained and legibly presented. A comprehensive level of information was maintained, the addition of personal copies of physical intervention records is recommended (see recommended action 6). Cloughwood Special School Page 26

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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 The school maintained all of the records as listed within the standard. A small number of gaps within the personnel records will be reported under the staffing standard. The record of accidents was maintained using a local authority record system using loose- leaf forms for completion; the students’ copies included body charts, which promoted clarity. The visitors record was complete upon inspection. The school maintained a bound log for the recording of complaints.

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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 The students were observed using the pay telephone unit after tea to contact families; the care staff provided opportunities for this contact each day. The young people thought that incoming phone calls from families were restricted by the lack of a direct line into the residential unit. Responding parents advised the inspector that they were well received by school during visits. The individual records provided space to record any restrictions on contact.

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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? 9 At the time of the inspection the young people with a looked after status were not approaching the end of their school career, therefore there was no evidence for this standard. Cloughwood Special School Page 27

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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 There was evidence provided through the case tracking of individuals that school maintained a balanced programme of individual progress and group participation for the students. The Head of care and the care staff team demonstrated a clear understanding of individual strengths and needs. The students confirmed that they were able to approach any chosen member of staff for advice and the level of peer support was also seen as valuable. The individual needs addressed within school included attention deficit disorders and specific learning difficulties. Cloughwood Special School Page 28

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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? 2 Cloughwood school shares the Hartford Campus with several other schools and backs onto a wooded area. The location provides easy access to leisure and sporting facilities used by the students. The premises include a large sports hall and playing fields for students’ use. The established and planned residential units are mainly peer group based; the student population is all male therefore there is no need for gender specific dormitories. The local fire safety and environmental health departments have inspected the premises and found them to be satisfactory. The senior management team were advised by the inspector to request a final fire safety check by the local fire brigade prior to the new residential unit being operational. The residential unit in use provided an adjacent sleep-in room for care staff. Further sleep-in accommodation was provided in other parts of school. The current sleep-in area needed

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

window coverings to one window and was being used as a temporary storage area, which impeded the facilities provided for staff (see advisory recommendations 3 and 4). The resident maintenance officer has responsibility for securing the building each night during week nights. The main entrance to school is fitted with a restricted access facility where visitors are given access by staff members. The doors to the students’ single bedrooms were fitted with an alarm facility, to alert the waking night staff of student activity. Cloughwood Special School Page 29

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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 The established residential unit and the planned residential units are an integral part of the main school building. The established residential unit included a small lounge area with a kitchenette for students use. The residential areas are reasonably decorated and furnished in a functional manner. Single bedrooms are provided, which promotes privacy for the young people. The personal bedrooms belonging to students were highly personalised and child centred displays are posted on notice boards. Evidence of graffiti was observed in the entrance area to the sports hall, which needed attention. Personal storage space was provided within the bedrooms and secure storage for valuables was provided within the staff duty flat. Study space was provided for each student. The school provides a laundry facility where clothing and linen is laundered. The bedding

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

and soft furnishings in use during the inspection were clean and well maintained. The lighting and heating were maintained at comfortable levels throughout the residential areas.

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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 Each of the single bedrooms within the residential unit provided en-suite shower and toilet facilities, which is positive provision. These facilities were clean and suitable for use upon inspection. The sleep in staff had access to staff facilities within the duty flats. Cloughwood Special School Page 30

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

guidance. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 The school log book referred to a safety check on the cold water storage arrangements within school, the contractor had identified an issue with these arrangements, which requires attention (see recommended action 7). The records of safety checks on school gas and electrical installations and appliances were inspected and gaps in the records of boiler services were identified (see recommended action 8). There was evidence provided thorough MOT test certificates that school vehicles were maintained and serviced. A written log of internal safety checks on vehicles is recommended (see advisory recommendation 6). High-risk areas within the premises such as the woodwork and science areas were secured when not in use. The school’s fire logbook was updated regularly with records of all the required checks. The medical room provided a medication fridge, which was not fitted with a thermometer

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

(see recommended action 9). The local authority health and safety team had checked the fridge within the residential unit and a recommendation made regarding the storage of food within this unit (see advisory recommendation 5). Cloughwood Special School Page 31

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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? 2 The school bursar is responsible for the administration involved with the appointment of staff. The personnel records that were inspected were well maintained and securely stored. The receipt of two written references should be retained within the personnel records. One record pertaining to an operational staff member did not hold evidence of an enhanced CRB clearance, which is unacceptable (see recommended action 10).

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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 Following the evening meal each of the residential units will have a designated care associate providing supervision until 11o’clock pm; and from 7o’clock each morning until class commences. One member of waking night staff is on duty between the hours of 11pm and 7 am, with the back up of a sleep-in member of care staff within each unit. The senior manager on call provides support through the evening and emergency back up after 11 p.m. At the time of the inspection one unit was operational, with plans to open two further units to provide for a maximum number of seventeen students. At the time of the inspection the head of care was working in addition to these levels.

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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 Newly appointed care staff members had been provided with a structured induction programme and records of the same. This programme appeared comprehensive and in line with TOPSS specifications. The school inset programme provided training for the whole staff group and care staff members value the input received to date and the opportunity to interact with the teaching staff team.

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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? 2 The care staff were very clear regarding accountability towards the Head teacher and Head of care. Staff members advised the inspection team that they feel well supported and can raise issues with the senior management team. The school policy referred to half termly supervision sessions for the care staff team, which needed to be implemented (see recommended action 11). There was evidence through the inspection that the care staff team met daily, which promoted the transfer of information and the provision of peer support. The Head of Care receives peer support from the senior management team, a programme of half-termly supervision session was not in evidence (see recommended action 12). The school policy document was under review by the new senior management team. Cloughwood Special School Page 33

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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? 2 The school’s Head of Care has a wealth of experience within the field of residential special education and the care of looked after children. The present post holder holds NVQ training at level four with the Registered Managers award. The senior childcare associates have relevant experience and provide advice and support to the care associates. Two of the senior care staff team are NVQ work based assessors, which promotes the team’s completion of the NVQ programme. A number of the care associates have completed relevant qualifications, which equate to NVQ level three (see advisory recommendation 7). The established care staff members have gone through a period of great unsettlement within school and their continued motivation and positive approach to the residential task is to be commended.

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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? 2 There was evidence provided through the school records, which included counter signatures that the Head teacher maintained a close working knowledge of operational matters within school. The monitoring of school records internally has been delegated to the Head of Care who plans to implement a programme to meet this standard (see recommended action 13). Cloughwood Special School Page 34

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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? 2 The governing body and the Head teacher have agreed a protocol to address this standard and the proposed report format was shared with the inspector. The report content met the standard and the school proposed to introduce a programme of monitoring visits with records of the same (see recommended action 14). The senior management team were aware that the designated person needed to complete a Criminal Record Bureau check at an enhanced level due to the unsupervised contact with students. Cloughwood Special School Page 35

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(where applicable)

A lay assessor was not involved in this inspection.

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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 November 16 th and 17 th 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 Cloughwood Special School Page 37

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

Amendments to the report were necessary NO

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

Comments were received from the provider

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Action taken by the CSCI 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 CSCI 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.

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recommendations are to be addressed and stating a clear timescale for

completion. This will be kept on file and made available on request.

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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: Cloughwood Special School Page 38

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inspection conducted on 16 and 17 November 2004 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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Cloughwood Special School / 16th & 17th November 2004

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

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Cloughwood Special School / 16th & 17th November 2004

Telephone: 020 7979 2000 Fax: 020 7979 2111

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Cloughwood Special School / 16th & 17th November 2004

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

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Cloughwood Special School / 16th & 17th November 2004

S0000006625.V188042.R01 © 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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Cloughwood Special School / 16th & 17th November 2004

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

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