The Stables Independent School

School pre-registration inspection report

p.1

The Stables The Old Rectory, Old Rectory Road, Brumstead, Norwich NR12 9EU

p.1

Main inspection findings

Part 1. Quality of education provided Paragraph 2(1), 2(1)(a), 2(1)(b), 2(1)(b)(i), 2(1)(b)(ii), 2(2), 2(2)(a), 2(2)(b), 2(2)(c), 2(2)(d), 2(2)(d)(i), 2(2)(d)(ii), 2(2)(e), 2(2)(e)(i), 2(2)(e)(ii), 2(2)(e)(iii), 2(2)(h) and 2(2)(i)  The curriculum is focused on English and mathematics, and complemented by a wide range of other subjects, including science, food technology, design and technology, music and art. Schemes of work have been written for each subject, but will be tailored to meet the needs and ages of individual pupils when they arrive. Pupils’ literacy and numeracy skills will be externally moderated through links with other local schools. The proprietors have ensured that there are appropriate curriculum plans in place, and that these will be adapted to suit the needs and ages of incoming pupils.  British values will be woven throughout the curriculum, but covered specifically through personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) education. Pupils will gain a

p.1

Main inspection findings

wider understanding of different faiths and cultures through religious education lessons and visits to places of worship.  Careers information and guidance that includes presentations from local employers will be available to pupils in key stage 3.  The proprietors have ensured that the standard in this paragraph is likely to be met. Paragraph 3, 3(a), 3(b), 3(c), 3(d), 3(e), 3(f), 3(g), 3(h), 3(i), 3(j) and 4  Staff have the appropriate skills and experience to plan and deliver effective learning.  Classrooms are light, bright and well equipped. They provide pupils with a welcoming environment where they can learn effectively. There are separate facilities for pupils to learn carpentry and cookery skills. The sensory room and break-out areas provide useful spaces for pupils when they need space or to work individually.  Leaders will carry out baseline assessments to assess pupils’ learning needs on entry

p.1

Main inspection findings

to the school. The clinical psychologist will produce a cognitive profile for each pupil. This will be used alongside the information in education, health and care (EHC) plans to determine pupils’ additional needs. Staff will use a range of assessment information, including attainment targets for pupils who have Special Educational Needs (SEN) Performance scales (P scales), to check pupils’ academic progress.  The proprietors have ensured that the standards in these paragraphs are likely to be met.

p.1

Main inspection findings

Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils Paragraph 5, 5(a), 5(b), 5(b)(i), 5(b)(ii), 5(b)(iii), 5(b)(iv), 5(b)(v), 5(b)(vi), 5(b)(vii), 5(c), 5(d), 5(d)(i), 5(d)(ii) and 5(d)(iii)  Schemes of work show that spiritual, moral, social and cultural development will be delivered through all subjects, but specifically through the PSHE programme.  Leaders are developing links within the local community, and these include raising funds for local charities, selling vegetables that pupils have grown, and selling crafts at local fairs as part of the school’s ‘enterprise’ scheme. All of these will help to build pupils’ confidence and social skills, while developing respect for others.  Leaders know that a key priority is to improve pupils’ behaviour and self-esteem so that they can achieve well academically. Staff are aware of the difficulties that many pupils face and that many struggle to make the right choices. The ethos of the school

p.2

Main inspection findings

centres on helping pupils to distinguish between right and wrong and learning to take responsibility for their actions and behaviour.  The proprietors have ensured that the standard in this paragraph is likely to be met.

p.2

Main inspection findings

Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils Paragraph 7, 7(a) and 7(b)  The proprietor has clear procedures and detailed policies to safeguard pupils and to promote all aspects of their welfare, health and safety.  The designated officer for child protection has undertaken suitable training.  A range of policies were seen, alongside a number of suitable arrangements to support pupils’ safety and well-being.  New staff receive training for safeguarding pupils on induction, including child protection training.  Staff will consider pupils’ individual needs based on information received and their own initial assessments.  The safeguarding policy reflects the latest statutory guidance. This and other policies required by legislation are available from the school on request. They will be posted on the website when it goes live in August 2018.  Leaders ensure that detailed records of any safeguarding concerns are kept.

p.2

Main inspection findings

 The proprietors have ensured that the standard in this paragraph is likely to be met. Paragraph 9, 9(a), 9(b), 9(c) and 10  The proprietors have ensured that a suitable behaviour policy is in place, and this links closely to their anti-bullying policy. These policies set out the school’s approach to rewards and sanctions, which will be used to promote pupils’ good behaviour.  The proprietors have ensured that the standards in these paragraphs are likely to be met. Paragraph 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 16(a) and 16(b)  The proprietors have ensured that a range of policies are in place to cover the required aspects of health and safety, and fire safety. Gas and electrical equipment is serviced regularly and checked to ensure that it is in good condition. Safety checks are made on fire extinguishers and fire exits and evacuation plans are clearly displayed.  First-aid resources are readily available and easily accessible. There is a sufficient

p.2

Main inspection findings

number of trained first aiders in the school.  The proprietors have ensured that detailed, written risk assessments and health and safety checks are carried out with regular audits to ensure that any potential hazards identified are addressed.  The proprietors plan to open up with approximately six pupils initially. This would be two pupils per room, each with their own teacher or higher-level teaching assistant and some with an additional learning support worker. The high staff-to-pupil ratios allow for close supervision of pupils.  Appropriate systems for recording admissions and attendance are in place.  The proprietors have ensured that the standards in these paragraphs are likely to be met.

p.3

Main inspection findings

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors Paragraph 17, 18, 18(1), 18(2), 18(2)(a), 18(2)(b), 18(2)(c), 18(2)(c)(i), 18(2)(c)(ii), 18(2)(c)(iii), 18(2)(c)(iv), 18(2)(d), 18(2)(e), 18(2)(f) and 18(3)  The required pre-employment checks, related to the suitability of staff to work with children, have been carried out and meet statutory requirements.  Paragraph 19(2), 19(2)(a)(i), 19(2)(a)(i)(aa), 19(2)(a)(i)(bb), 19(2)(a)(i)(cc), 19(2)(a)(ii), 19(2)(b), 19(2)(c), 19(2)(d)(i), 19(2)(d)(ii), 19(3) and 19(4)  The proprietors do not intend to employ supply staff. There is sufficient capacity within the group’s own staff to cover absences. However, leaders are aware of the required checks that need to be made before any person undertakes supply work should the need arise.  The proprietor has plans in place to employ additional staff as pupils numbers grow. Paragraph 20(1), 20(2), 20(3), 20(3)(a), 20(3)(a)(i), 20(3)(a)(ii), 20(5), 20(5)(a),

p.3

Main inspection findings

20(5)(a)(i), 20(5)(a)(ii), 20(5)(b), 20(5)(b)(i), 20(5)(b)(ii), 20(5)(b)(iii), 20(6), 20(6)(a), 20(6)(a)(i), 20(6)(a)(ii), 20(6)(b), 20(6)(b)(i), 20(6)(b)(ii), 20(6)(b)(iii) and 20(6)(c)  The proprietor has ensured that all the necessary checks on those responsible for governance, including those relating to section 128 of the Act have been carried out. Paragraph 21(1), 21(2), 21(3), 21(3)(a), 21(3)(a)(i), 21(3)(a)(ii), 21(3)(a)(iii), 21(3)(a)(iv), 21(3)(a)(v), 21(3)(a)(vi), 21(3)(a)(vii), 21(3)(a)(viii), 21(3)(b), 21(4), 21(5), 21(5)(a), 21(5)(a)(i), 21(5)(a)(ii), 21(5)(b), 21(5)(c), 21(6), 21(7), 21(7)(a) and 21(7)(b)  All appropriate checks on the suitability of staff, and the proprietors are recorded on the school’s single central record. Some slight administrative amendments were made to the format of the single central record during the course of the inspection. This now meets statutory requirements.

p.3

Main inspection findings

 The proprietors have ensured that the standard in these paragraphs are likely to be met.

p.4

Main inspection findings

Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools Paragraphs 23(1), 23(1)(a), 23(1)(b), 23(1)(c), 24(1), 24(1)(a), 24(1)(b), 25, 26, 27, 27(a), 27(b), 28(1), 28(1)(a), 28(1)(b), 28(1)(c), 28(1)(d), 28(2), 28(2)(a), 28(2)(b), 29(1), 29(1)(a) and 29(1)(b)  The premises are clean, well kept, safe and secure. Lighting and acoustics are suitable throughout the building.  The existing school building includes three classrooms, two fitted with interactive whiteboards and a log cabin. There is also a sensory room, a communal dining area, a specialist woodworking room and some additional break-out areas.  The new building includes a hall area which will be used for assemblies, a reception area, a meeting room, an office, and a room that is suitable for the short-term care of sick pupils. There is also an adapted toilet for use by disabled pupils, complete with facilities for changing and showering.  Staff and pupils have separate toilet facilities, all with hot and cold running water.

p.4

Main inspection findings

Pupils have access to drinking water throughout the day.  Pupils access physical education through the use of a local sports centre and a private swimming pool, both with their own changing and showering facilities.  The site provides ample space and lots of opportunities for pupils to play outside.  The proprietors have ensured that the standards in these paragraphs are likely to be met.

p.4

Main inspection findings

Part 6. Provision of information Paragraph 32(1), 32(1)(a), 32(1)(b), 32(1)(c), 32(1)(d), 32(1)(f), (32(1)(h), 32(1)(i), 32(1)(j), 32(2), 32(2)(a), 32(2)(b)(i), 32(2)(c), 32(2)(d), 32(3), 32(3)(a), 32(3)(b), 32(3)(c), 32(3)(d), 32(3)(e), 32(3)(f) and 32(3)(g)  The school’s website is not yet live. All school policies will be available via the website when it goes live in August 2018. In the meantime, school policies are available to parents, carers and those who may have responsibility for pupils on request.  Leaders will provide parents and carers with written reports on a half-termly basis. The school’s records showing pupils’ academic and social progress will also be used at the annual reviews for pupils with EHC plans.  Leaders know that they need to account for and provide a breakdown of the income and expenditure for funds received from local authorities.  The proprietors have ensured that the standard in this paragraph is likely to be met.

p.4

Main inspection findings

Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled Paragraph 33, 33(a), 33(b), 33(c), 33(d), 33(e), 33(f), 33(g), 33(h), 33 (i), 33(i)(i), 33(i)(ii), 33(j), 33(j)(i), 33(j)(ii) and 33(k)  The procedures, timescales, composition of the panel, and steps towards resolutions are clear for both formal and informal complaints.  The proprietors have ensured that the standard in this paragraph is likely to be met.

p.5

Main inspection findings

Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools Paragraph 34(1), 34(1)(a), 34(1)(b) and 34(1)(c)  The proprietor and leaders have a clear vision for the school and are committed to improving the life chances of pupils with challenging behaviours and other additional needs.  The headteacher and school adviser have considerable experience of this type of setting. The proprietors and headteacher are familiar with the independent school standards.  The proprietors have considerable experience and a proven track record of success in helping pupils with behavioural issues to overcome their difficulties and develop positive social attitudes.  The proprietor has ensured that the standard in this paragraph is likely to be met.

p.5

Main inspection findings

 The accessibility plan provides details of how all pupils can access the premises and the curriculum effectively.  The proprietor has ensured that the requirements of Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010 are likely to be met.

p.5

Compliance with regulatory requirements

The school is likely to meet the requirements of the schedule to the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014 (‘the independent school standards’) and associated requirements.

p.6

Proposed school details

This inspection was carried out under section 99 of the Education and Skills Act 2008, the purpose of which is to advise the Secretary of State for Education about the school’s likely compliance with the independent school standards that are required for registration as an independent school.

p.7

Proposed school details

School status Independent special school

p.7

Proposed school details

Proprietor Clover Childcare Services Ltd

p.7

Proposed school details

Website www.thestablesschool.co.uk (not live yet)

p.7

Proposed school details

Email address Dan.knight@thestablesschool.co.uk

p.7

Proposed school details

Date of previous standard inspection Not previously inspected

p.7

n

Age range of pupils Not applicable 6  14 6  14 Number of pupils on the school roll Not applicable 22 22

p.8

School’s current position School’s proposal

Gender of pupils Not applicable Mixed Number of full-time pupils of compulsory school age Not applicable Not yet determined

p.8

School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of part-time pupils Not applicable Not yet determined

p.8

School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities Not applicable Not yet determined

p.8

School’s current position School’s proposal

Of which, number of pupils with a statement of special educational needs or an education, health and care plan Not applicable Not yet determined

p.8

School’s current position School’s proposal

Of which, number of pupils paid for by a local authority with a statement of special educational needs or an education, health and care plan Not applicable Not yet determined

p.8

School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of full-time equivalent teaching staff 2 3 (based on 6 pupils)

p.9

School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of part-time teaching staff 2 3 (based on 6 pupils)

p.9

School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of staff in the welfare provision Not applicable Not applicable

p.9

Information about this proposed school

 The provider seeks its own registration with the Department for Education (DfE) as a special independent school, to cater for pupils who have SEN and/or disabilities that are often social, emotional and mental health needs.  The school will provide full-time education for pupils who have SEN and/or disabilities and who reside in Clover Childcare children’s homes. There may be limited capacity to accept other pupils referred by local authorities.  The provider intends to cater for pupils between the ages of 6 and 14 years, most of whom will be residents at one of the group’s three children’s homes.  The educational provision on the site at present is run by a local independent school, All Saints School at Lessingham, which has its own separate DfE registration.  The proposed school is located on a single site at The Old Rectory, Brumstead in Norfolk. The provider seeks capacity for up to 22 pupils. However, there is a graduated

p.9

Information about this proposed school

plan in place to stagger pupils’ entry, before building to capacity over a five-year period. The school intends to open with up to approximately six pupils in September, increasing to a maximum of 12 by the end of the second year.  The local authority will commission placements to the school and are supportive of the application.  The proposed proprietorship will be Clover Childcare Services Ltd.

p.9

Information about this inspection

 This is the first pre-registration inspection of the proposed school. It was conducted by Ofsted at the request of the DfE to consider the school’s application to open an independent special school registered for pupils aged 6 to 14.  The inspector met with the proprietors, the headteacher, the quality assurance manager, the school’s adviser and the school’s business manager.  The visit included a guided tour of the site.  The inspector scrutinised the school’s policies and the single central record of employment checks.

p.10

Inspection team

John Randall, lead inspector Her Majesty’s Inspector guidance ‘Raising concerns and making a complaint about Ofsted’, which is available from Ofsted’s website: www.gov.uk/government/publications/complaints-about-ofsted . If you would like Ofsted to send you a copy of the guidance, please telephone 0300 123 4234, or email enquiries@ofsted.gov.uk .

p.10

Inspection team

Parent View You can use Parent View to give Ofsted your opinion on your child’s school. Ofsted will use the information parents and carers provide when deciding which schools to inspect and when and as part of the inspection.

p.11

Inspection team

You can also use Parent View to find out what other parents and carers think about schools in England. You can visitwww.parentview.ofsted.gov.uk, or look for the link on the main Ofsted website: www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ofsted .

p.11

Inspection team

achieve excellence in the care of children and young people, and in education and skills for learners of all ages. It regulates and inspects childcare and children’s social care, and inspects the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (Cafcass), schools, colleges, initial teacher training, further education and skills, adult and community learning, and education and training in prisons and other secure establishments. It assesses council children’s services, and inspects services for looked after children, safeguarding and child protection.

p.11

Inspection team

If you would like a copy of this document in a different format, such as large print or Braille, please telephone 0300 123 1231, or email enquiries@ofsted.gov.uk . You may reuse this information (not including logos) free of charge in any format or medium, under the terms of the Open Government Licence. To view this licence, visit www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open- government-licence , write to the Information Policy Team, The National Archives, Kew, London TW9 4DU, or email: psi@nationalarchives.gsi.gov.uk .

p.11

Inspection team

Interested in our work? You can subscribe to our monthly newsletter for more information and updates: http://eepurl.com/iTrDn .

p.11

Inspection team

T: 0300 123 4234 Textphone: 0161 618 8524 E: enquiries@ofsted.gov.uk W: www.ofsted.gov.uk

p.11