Redwood School

School pre-registration inspection report

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Redwood School 1 Sluice Cottages, Manor Way, Holland-on-Sea, Essex CO15 5TZ

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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)(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), 2(2)(i)  There is no curriculum policy. The proprietor does not yet have a clear plan about the curriculum that will be offered to pupils.  Schemes of work in English, mathematics and science are extremely sparse in the detail and depth. There are no plans about how these subjects will be taught or how this curriculum will meet the varied and complex needs of pupils who are likely to attend the school.  The curriculum on offer in the wider curriculum subjects is ill-prepared. There are no plans in place for any other subjects and learning, including personal, social, health and economic education and careers guidance.  Given the needs of pupils who are likely to attend the school, there are significant

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Main inspection findings

weaknesses in the proprietor’s planning for the curriculum.  This independent school standard is unlikely to be met. Paragraphs 3, 3(a), 3(b), 3(c), 3(d), 3(e), 3(f), 3(g), 3(h), 3(i), 3(j) Paragraph 4  Owing to significant last-minute changes to the proposed premises for the school, the proprietor has not thought through well enough how many pupils and staff the new premises can reasonably facilitate.  Owing to this lack of clarity, the proprietor does not yet have plans about how she will ensure that staff have the appropriate skills and subject knowledge to deliver effective learning.  The proprietor plans to be the headteacher and the main lead teacher in the school. However, the proprietor has not yet thought through how to quality assure the provision on offer to pupils.  Available evidence during the inspection suggests that almost all lessons will take place in one room in the house. Although there are building works currently ongoing,

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Main inspection findings

most of this work is related to lighting and health and safety. There are no formal plans about how this room will facilitate a wide-ranging curriculum, including where practical learning needs to take place, or how pupils of different ages and key stages will need to learn alongside one another. It is also not clear how pupils’ potential learning needs have been taken into account in teaching 12 pupils in this room at the same time.  There are no formal plans about how assessment processes are going to be established in the school.  These standards are unlikely to be met.

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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), 5(d)(iii)  There are no schemes of work, references, policies, protocols or plans for how the school is going to provide for the spiritual, moral, social or cultural development of pupils.  This standard is unlikely to be met.

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Main inspection findings

Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils Paragraph 7, 7(a), 7(b)  The school’s safeguarding policy references outdated legal guidance and does not make links to any other relevant school policies. There are omissions in this policy about vital aspects of the school’s safeguarding work such as their legal responsibilities regarding female genital mutilation.  There are no protocols about how safeguarding processes will work in the school.  There are no policies or protocols for allegations against staff.  The nature of the school site also being a domestic dwelling, brings a variety of additional safeguarding considerations for the proprietor. These have not been considered in any of the school’s policies or protocols.  The safeguarding needs of pupils who are likely to attend the school have not been considered precisely. The proprietor has not taken account of how the school will act to safeguard pupils of varying ages, and with complex needs.

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Main inspection findings

 This standard is unlikely to be met. Paragraph 9, 9(a), 9(b), 9(c) Paragraph 10  The behaviour policy is inaccurate. For example, the policy references that the school will use physical and chemical restraint. However, the proprietor does not intend to use physical or chemical restraint.  There are no formal protocols or plans about how the school will establish good behaviour under their stated vision of ‘positive behaviour systems’.  The anti-bullying policy refers to the wrong school. There are no clear protocols or plans about how the school will promote anti-bullying or deal with bullying incidents.  These standards are unlikely to be met. Paragraph 11 Paragraph 12 Paragraph 13  The health and safety policy provided to inspectors references a different school site. There is no policy that takes account of the proposed new site. There are no protocols or plans about how health and safety is going to be effectively managed at the

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Main inspection findings

school.  The proprietor has very recently sought advice from external professionals about the work required to ensure that the site adheres to fire regulations. However, there are no formal plans about what work needs to be undertaken, the cost and timescale of the works, or how the proprietor is going to ensure that this work is completed by the proposed time of opening. There are no detailed plans for fire evacuations in the event of an emergency or for how fire regulations will be maintained over time.  There is no first aid policy. Within the health and safety policy there is a short paragraph that refers to first aid, but this references the wrong school site. There is insufficient information about how the proprietor will ensure the effective implementation of first aid in the school.  These standards are unlikely to be met. Paragraph 14  The proprietor does not know the numbers of staff required to fully supervise pupils in

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Main inspection findings

the school. During the inspection, the proprietor identified that her current suggestion of two staff members for 12 pupils would not be sufficient, given pupils’ needs and ages.  This standard is unlikely to be met. Paragraph 15  The proprietor does not have a thorough understanding of the legal guidance surrounding the required content and maintenance of admissions and attendance registers.  This standard is unlikely to be met. Paragraph 16, 16(a), 16(b)  There is no risk assessment policy.  The one risk assessment that exists currently for the school is of very poor quality. It does not identify the range of possible risks of the school site in any level of detail. The actions identified to manage potential risks are significantly underdeveloped.  The proprietor has not considered the full variety of risk assessments that may be pertinent for the school.  This standard is unlikely to be met. Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

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Main inspection findings

Paragraph 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(3)  The proprietor intends to use an external agency to run pre-employment checks on staff.  The proprietor does not have a thorough understanding of the range of checks that need to be undertaken on staff. The proprietor has a stronger understanding about the application and interview processes but has not had formal recruitment training.  There are no plans about how the proprietor is going to acquire this understanding and knowledge prior to the proposed opening of the school.  This standard is unlikely to be met. 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)(i)(dd), 19(2)(a)(ii), 19(2)(b), 19(2)(c), 19(2)(d), 19(2)(d)(i), 19(2)(d)(ii), 19(3)  The proprietor has an inconsistent view about whether she will or will not be using

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Main inspection findings

agency supply staff. Consequently, she is not yet clear on the checks that she will need to make on supply staff.  This standard is unlikely to be met. Paragraph 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), 20(6)(c)  The proprietor does not yet have a clear view as to how she will quality assure the provision in the school. Initially she planned to undertake the roles of proprietor, headteacher and sole teacher in the school. During the inspection, the proprietor began to change this view and identified that she may need to review her plans for supervision and governance.  The proprietor does not yet know the checks that she will need to make.  This standard is unlikely to be met. 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),

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Main inspection findings

21(5), 21(5)(a), 21(5)(a)(i), 21(5)(a)(ii), 21(5)(b), 21(5)(c), 21(6)  There is no single central record yet in place as there are no employees in the school.  The proprietor has not yet made firm decisions on staffing and governance. She does not yet have a thorough understanding about the checks that she needs to make in line with legal guidance.  This standard is unlikely to be met.

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Main inspection findings

Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools Paragraphs 23(1), 23(1)(a), 23(1)(b), 23(1)(c) Paragraph 24(1), 24(1)(a), 24(1)(b), 24(2) Paragraph 25 Paragraph 26 Paragraph 27, 27(a), 27(b) Paragraph 28(1), 28(1)(a), 28(1)(b), 28(1)(c), 28(1)(d), 28(2), 28(2)(a), 28(2)(b) Paragraph 29(1), 29(1)(a), 29(1)(b)  The proprietor’s original plans to use purpose-built premises are no longer viable. Consequently, the proprietor has decided to use her own home as the premises for the school in the first instance.  There are no plans about how the proprietor is going to manage the complexities of those living in the house, and those attending as pupils.  The premises require considerable building and improvement work to ensure that they meet the independent school standards. There are no formal action plans which show timescales, works required and costings, for example.  All lessons will take place in one room, with the exception of any outdoor lessons or

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Main inspection findings

lessons off site. Owing to the weaknesses in the curriculum planning, it is not possible to ascertain what lessons these will be. Pupils will also eat their lunches in the same room. There has not been enough thought about the appropriateness of this provision for the age range and needs of pupils who are likely to attend the school.  The provision for pupils requiring medical examination and treatment is not well thought out or appropriate. The proprietor plans to use the family dining room as the medical room. She also plans to use the same room as an administrative room for the school. There are no plans about how this will be managed, nor how this room will be well safeguarded, given that it is the only access to the kitchen from inside the house.  There is no suitable accommodation for pupils to get changed for physical education. There are no suitable showers for pupils over the age of 11 who receive physical

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Main inspection findings

education. The proprietor has not thought through how she will ensure that this standard will be met.  There is a toilet downstairs that can be locked from the inside. However, the hot water is currently not at the correct temperature and poses a scalding risk to pupils. The proprietor is aware of this and plans to act to address the issue.  While internal lighting is appropriate, there is building work currently ongoing to install outdoor lighting. However, there are no formal plans that show how this is going to cover the entire site.  The proprietor does not yet have a firm plan for how pupils will access readily available drinking water. Pupils will not be accessing the kitchen on the premises, which is where the only viable drinking water is available. The proprietor is considering using bottled water. She is also considering an outdoor fountain. There are no plans about how the quality of this water will be checked and maintained.

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Main inspection findings

 There is expansive outdoor space at the back of the property. However, the site poses several risks to pupils in its current state. There is no action plan that details how this work is going to be accomplished by the proposed date of opening.  The curriculum for physical education is not confirmed. The proprietor does not know what will be taking place on the school site or off the school site.  These standards are unlikely to be met.

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Main inspection findings

Part 6. Provision of information Paragraph 32(1), 32(1)(a), 32(1)(b), 32(1)(c), 32(1)(f), 32(1)(g), 32(1)(h), 32(1)(i), 32(2), 32(2)(a), 32(2)(b), 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)  The proprietor intends to have a website. There are no formal plans about how this is to be achieved.  The proprietor does not yet have an outline or view about how she will be reporting annually in written form to parents.  The proprietor’s proposed fees are not well thought out. The school’s own proposed accounts that were shown to inspectors are inaccurate. There is no clear rationale behind the fees that the proprietor is planning to charge, including to local authorities that place pupils in the school.  Owing to the weaknesses in the limited number of policies available, there are significant shortfalls in the provision of information about the school.

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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), 33(k)  There are significant weaknesses in the school’s complaints policy. These weaknesses include omissions about the timescales for the management of a complaint, the procedure for parents who are not satisfied, the provision for a hearing before a panel, and the ability for a parent to be accompanied at a panel hearing. There are no other plans or protocols yet established.  This standard is unlikely to be met.

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Main inspection findings

Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools Paragraph 34(1), 34(1)(a), 34(1)(b), 34(1)(c)  The proprietor does not have a thorough understanding of the independent school standards. Consequently, almost all standards in Parts 1 to 7 are not likely to be met.  The proprietor acknowledges that she has not yet had enough time to become familiar with the independent school standards. She does not have an appropriate and wide-ranging understanding of other legal guidance needed in order to open the school successfully.  The proprietor feels that her timeframe to open the school has been hindered by the unexpected and recent change to the premises.  The proprietor aspires for the school to be high quality for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Consequently, she reflected, during the inspection, the need to re-think about the age range of pupils, the curriculum and the

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Main inspection findings

timeframe for opening.  This standard is unlikely to be met.

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Main inspection findings

 There is no accessibility plan that provides details of how all pupils can access the premises and the curriculum effectively.  The proprietor has not ensured that the requirements of Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010 are likely to be met.

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Compliance with regulatory requirements

The school is unlikely to meet the requirements of the schedule to The Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014 (‘the independent school standards’) and associated requirements, as set out in the annex of this report.

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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.

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Proposed school details

School status Independent special school

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Proposed school details

Date of previous standard inspection not previously inspected

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recommendation

Age range of pupils not applicable not yet determined none Number of pupils on the school roll not applicable 12 0

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recommendation

Reason for inspector’s recommendations  The proprietor has not yet determined the age range of the pupils that the school will be providing education for.  The school is also unlikely to meet almost all the requirements of the independent school standards. Therefore, the inspector’s recommendation is that the school does not currently provide education for any pupils.

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Gender of pupils not applicable mixed Number of full-time pupils of compulsory school age not applicable 12

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of part-time pupils not applicable

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities not applicable 12

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Of which, number of pupils with an education, health and care plan not applicable not yet determined

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Of which, number of pupils paid for by a local authority with an education, health and care plan not applicable not yet determined

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of full-time equivalent teaching staff not applicable not yet determined

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of part-time teaching staff not applicable not yet determined

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of staff in the welfare provision not applicable not applicable

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Information about this proposed school

 The provider seeks registration with the Department for Education (DfE) as an independent special school, to cater for pupils with SEND. Although the proprietor has not confirmed what age range she will provide education for, the proposal is likely to be for pupils of primary and secondary age.  Although the request to the DfE is to educate pupils between the ages of seven to 16, the proprietor acknowledged during the inspection that she needs to be re-think whether she has capacity and provision for this age range.  The proprietor proposes to provide full-time education for pupils as a day school. The proposal is that most pupils who will attend the school will be pupils with autism spectrum disorder. Some of the pupils may be vulnerable to exclusion from other schools or who have been excluded.  The proprietor originally applied to the DfE for the school to be built at a purpose-built site. The site proposed at Jaywick Lane in Clacton-on-Sea had previously served as a

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Information about this proposed school

school building. The proprietor intended for this to be a school for 72 pupils with SEND. However, the proprietor was informed that she could not use this purpose-built site in February 2019. She has opted to then convert her home into a school site. At this point, the application was amended so that the school would provide education for 12 pupils with SEND.  The proprietor proposes to open the school in September 2019. Although the proprietor believes a staggered start will be required, there is no graduated plan in place to stagger pupils’ entry, before building to capacity. There are currently no plans about how the school will develop in future years.  The proposed proprietor will be a sole proprietor. This proprietor will also be the headteacher and the lead teacher in the school. The role of governance in the school has not been decided.

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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 seven to 16.  The inspectors met with the proprietor.  The visit included a guided tour of the site.  The inspectors scrutinised the school’s policies, procedures, curriculum content, and the safeguarding information.  The lead inspector held a telephone conversation with a representative from the school commissioning team at Essex County Council.

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Inspection team

Kim Pigram, lead inspector Her Majesty’s Inspector

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

 2(1) The standard in this paragraph is met if–

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

– 2(1)(a) the proprietor ensures that a written policy on the curriculum, supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work, which provides for the matters specified in sub-paragraph (2) is drawn up and implemented effectively; and

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

– 2(1)(b) the written policy, plans and schemes of work–

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

– 2(1)(b)(i) take into account the ages, aptitudes and needs of all pupils, including those pupils with an EHC plan.

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

 2(2) For the purposes of paragraph (2)(1)(a), the matters are–

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

– 2(2)(a) full-time supervised education for pupils of compulsory school age (construed in accordance with section 8 of the Education Act 1996), which gives pupils experience in linguistic, mathematical, scientific, technological, human and social, physical and aesthetic and creative education

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

– 2(2)(b) that pupils acquire speaking, listening, literacy and numeracy skills

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

– 2(2)(d) personal, social, health and economic education which–

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

– 2(2)(d)(i) reflects the school’s aim and ethos; and

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

– 2(2)(d)(ii) encourages respect for other people, paying particular regard to the protected characteristics set out in the 2010 Act[9]

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

– 2(2)(e) for pupils receiving secondary education, access to accurate, up-to-date careers guidance that–

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

– 2(2)(e)(i) is presented in an impartial manner

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

– 2(2)(e)(ii) enables them to make informed choices about a broad range of career options; and

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

– 2(2)(e)(iii) helps to encourage them to fulfil their potential

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

– 2(2)(h) that all pupils have the opportunity to learn and make progress; and

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

– 2(2)(i) effective preparation of pupils for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of life in British society.  3 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that the teaching at the school–

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

– 3(a) enables pupils to acquire new knowledge and make good progress according to their ability so that they increase their understanding and develop their skills in the subjects taught

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

– 3(b) fosters in pupils self-motivation, the application of intellectual, physical and creative effort, interest in their work and the ability to think and learn for themselves

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

– 3(c) involves well planned lessons and effective teaching methods, activities and management of class time

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

– 3(d) shows a good understanding of the aptitudes, needs and prior attainments of the pupils, and ensures that these are taken into account in the planning of lessons

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

– 3(e) demonstrates good knowledge and understanding of the subject matter being taught

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

– 3(f) utilises effectively classroom resources of a good quality, quantity and range

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

– 3(g) demonstrates that a framework is in place to assess pupils’ work regularly and thoroughly and use information from that assessment to plan teaching so that pupils can progress

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

– 3(h) utilises effective strategies for managing behaviour and encouraging pupils to act responsibly.

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

 4 The standard in this paragraph is met where the proprietor ensures that a framework for pupil performance to be evaluated, by reference to the school’s own aims as provided to parents or national norms, or to both, is in place.

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Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils

 5 The standard about the spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils at the school is met if the proprietor–

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Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils

– 5(a) actively promotes the fundamental British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs

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Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils

– 5(b) ensures that principles are actively promoted which–

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Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils

– 5(b)(i) enable pupils to develop their self-knowledge, self-esteem and self-confidence

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Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils

– 5(b)(ii) enable pupils to distinguish right from wrong and to respect the civil and criminal law of England – 5(b)(iii) encourage pupils to accept responsibility for their behaviour, show initiative and understand how they can contribute positively to the lives of those living and working in the locality in which the school is situated and to society more widely

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Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils

– 5(b)(iv) enable pupils to acquire a broad general knowledge of and respect for public institutions and services in England

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Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils

– 5(b)(v) further tolerance and harmony between different cultural traditions by enabling pupils to acquire an appreciation of and respect for their own and other cultures

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Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils

– 5(b)(vi) encourage respect for other people, paying particular regard to the protected characteristics set out in the 2010 Act; and

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Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils

– 5(b)(vii) encourage respect for democracy and support for participation in the democratic process, including respect for the basis on which the law is made and applied in England

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Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils

– 5(c) precludes the promotion of partisan political views in the teaching of any subject in the school; and

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Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils

– 5(d) takes such steps as are reasonably practicable to ensure that where political issues are brought to the attention of pupils–

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Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils

– 5(d)(i) while they are in attendance at the school

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Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils

– 5(d)(ii) while they are taking part in extra-curricular activities which are provided or organised by or on behalf of the school, or

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Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils

– 5(d)(iii) in the promotion at the school, including through the distribution of promotional material, of extra-curricular activities taking place at the school or elsewhere

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Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils

they are offered a balanced presentation of opposing views.

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Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils

 7 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that–

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Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils

– 7(a) arrangements are made to safeguard and promote the welfare of pupils at the school; and

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Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils

– 7(b) such arrangements have regard to any guidance issued by the Secretary of State.

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Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils

 9 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor promotes good behaviour amongst pupils by ensuring that–

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Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils

– 9(a) a written behaviour policy is drawn up that, amongst other matters, sets out the sanctions to be adopted in the event of pupil misbehaviour

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Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils

– 9(b) the policy is implemented effectively; and

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Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils

– 9(c) a record is kept of the sanctions imposed upon pupils for serious misbehaviour.

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Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils

 10 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that bullying at the school is prevented in so far as reasonably practicable, by the drawing up and implementation of an effective anti-bullying strategy.

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Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils

 11 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that relevant health and safety laws are complied with by the drawing up and effective implementation of a written health and safety policy.

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Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils

 12 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures compliance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005[12].

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Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils

 13 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that first aid is administered in a timely and competent manner by the drawing up and effective implementation of a written first aid policy.

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Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils

 14 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that pupils are properly supervised through the appropriate deployment of school staff.

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Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils

 15 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that an admission and attendance register is maintained in accordance with the Education (Pupil Registration) (England) Regulations 2006[13].

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Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils

 16 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that–-

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Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils

– 16(a) the welfare of pupils at the school is safeguarded and promoted by the drawing up and effective implementation of a written risk assessment policy; and

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Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils

– 16(b) appropriate action is taken to reduce risks that are identified.

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Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

 18(2) The standard in this paragraph is met if–

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Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 18(2)(a) no such person is barred from regulated activity relating to children in accordance with section 3(2) of 2006 Act where that person is or will be engaging in activity which is regulated activity within the meaning of Part I of Schedule 4 to that Act

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Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 18(2)(b) no such person carries out work, or intends to carry out work, at the school in contravention of a prohibition order, an interim prohibition order, or any direction made under section 128 of the 2008 Act or section 142 of the 2002 Act, or any disqualification, prohibition or restriction which takes effect as if contained in either such direction

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Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 18(2)(c) the proprietor carries out appropriate checks to confirm in respect of each such person–

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Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 18(2)(c)(ii) the person’s medical fitness

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Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 18(2)(c)(iii) the person’s right to work in the United Kingdom; and

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Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 18(2)(e) in the case of any person for whom, by reason of that person living or having lived outside the United Kingdom, obtaining such a certificate is not sufficient to establish the person’s suitability to work in a school, such further checks are made as the proprietor considers appropriate, having regard to any guidance issued by the Secretary of State; and

p.17

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

in the light of the information from the checks referred to in paragraphs (c) to (f) the proprietor considers that the person is suitable for the position to which the person is appointed.

p.17

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

 18(3) The checks referred to in sub-paragraphs (2)(c) and (except where sub- paragraph (4) applies) (2)(e) must be completed before a person’s appointment.

p.17

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

 19(2) The standard in this paragraph is met if–

p.17

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 19(2)(a) a person offered for supply by an employment business to the school only begins to work at the school if the proprietor has received–

p.17

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 19(2)(a)(i) written notification from the employment business in relation to that person–

p.17

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 19(2)(a)(i)(aa) that the checks referred to in paragraph 21(3)(a)(i) to (iv), (vii) and (b) have been made to the extent relevant to that person

p.17

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 19(2)(a)(i)(bb) that, where relevant to that person, an enhanced criminal record check has been made and that it or another employment business has obtained an enhanced criminal record certificate in response to such a check; and

p.17

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 19(2)(a)(i)(cc) if the employment business has obtained such a certificate before the person is due to begin work at the school, whether it disclosed any matter or information; and

p.17

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 19(2)(a)(i)(dd) that, where the person is one for whom, by reason of that person living or having lived outside the United Kingdom, obtaining such a certificate is not sufficient to establish the person’s suitability to work in a school, it or another employment business has obtained such further checks as appropriate, having regard to any guidance issued by the Secretary of State; and

p.17

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 19(2)(a)(ii) a copy of any enhanced criminal record certificate obtained by an employment business before the person is due to begin work at the school

p.17

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 19(2)(b) a person offered for supply by an employment business only begins work at the school if the proprietor considers that the person is suitable for the work for which the person is supplied

p.18

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 19(2)(c) before a person offered for supply by an employment business begins work at the school the person’s identity is checked by the proprietor of the school (irrespective of any such check carried out by the employment business before the person was offered for supply)

p.18

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 19(2)(d) the proprietor, in the contract or other arrangements which the proprietor makes with any employment business, requires the employment business to provide–

p.18

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 19(2)(d)(i) the notification referred to in paragraph (a)(i); and

p.18

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 19(2)(d)(ii) a copy of any enhanced criminal record certificate which the employment business obtains, in respect of any person whom the employment business supplies to the school.

p.18

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 19(3) Except in the case of a person to whom sub-paragraph (4) applies, the certificate referred to in sub-paragraph (2)(a)(i)(bb) must have been obtained not more than 3 months before the date on which the person is due to begin work at the school.

p.18

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

 20(6) The standard in this paragraph is met in relation to an individual ("MB"), not being the Chair of the school, who is a member of a body of persons corporate or unincorporate named as the proprietor of the school in the register or in an application to enter the school in the register, if–

p.18

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 20(6)(a)(i) is not barred from regulated activity relating to children in accordance with section 3(2) of the 2006 Act where that individual is or will be engaging in activity which is regulated activity within the meaning of Part 1 of Schedule 4 of that Act; and

p.18

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 20(6)(a)(ii) does not carry out work, or intend to carry out work, at the school in contravention of a prohibition order, an interim prohibition order, or any direction made under section 128 of the 2008 Act or section 142 of the 2002 Act or any disqualification, prohibition or restriction which takes effect as if contained in either such direction

p.18

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 20(6)(b) subject to sub-paragraphs (7) to (8), the Chair of the school makes the following checks relating to MB–

p.18

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 20(6)(b)(i) where relevant to the individual, an enhanced criminal record check

p.18

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 20(6)(b)(ii) checks confirming MB’s identity and MB’s right to work in the United Kingdom; and

p.18

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 20(6)(b)(iii) where, by reason of MB’s living or having lived outside the United Kingdom, obtaining an enhanced criminal record certificate is not sufficient to establish MB’s suitability to work in a school, such further checks as the Chair of the school considers appropriate, having regard to any guidance issued by the Secretary of State

p.19

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

and, where an enhanced criminal check is made, the Chair obtains and enhanced criminal record certificate relating to the individual: and

p.19

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 20(6)(c) subject to sub-paragraph (8), where the Secretary of State makes a request for an enhanced criminal record check relating to MB countersigned by the Secretary of State to be made, such a check is made.

p.19

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

 21(1) The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor keeps a register which shows such of the information referred to in sub-paragraphs (3) to (7) as is applicable to the school in question.

p.19

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

 21(2) The register referred to in sub-paragraph (1) may be kept in electronic form, provided that the information so recorded is capable of being reproduced in legible form.

p.19

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

 21(3) The information referred to in this sub-paragraph is–

p.19

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 21(3)(a) in relation to each member of staff ("S") appointed on or after 1st May 2007, whether–

p.19

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 21(3)(a)(ii) a check was made to establish whether S is barred from regulated activity relating to children in accordance with section 3(2) of the 2006 Act

p.19

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 21(3)(a)(iii) a check was made to establish whether S is subject to any direction made under section 128 of the 2008 Act or section 142 of the 2002 Act or any disqualification, prohibition or restriction which takes effect as if contained in such a direction

p.19

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 21(3)(a)(iv) checks were made to ensure, where appropriate, that S had the relevant qualifications

p.19

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 21(3)(a)(v) an enhanced criminal record certificate was obtained in respect of S

p.19

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 21(3)(a)(vi) checks were made pursuant to paragraph 18(2)(d)

p.19

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 21(3)(a)(vii) a check of S’s right to work in the United Kingdom was made; and

p.19

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 21(3)(a)(viii) checks were made pursuant to paragraph 18(2)(e) including the date on which each such check was completed or the certificate obtained; and

p.19

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 21(3)(b) in relation to each member of staff ("S"), whether a check was made to establish whether S is subject to a prohibition order or an interim prohibition order, including the date on which such check was completed.

p.20

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

 21(4) The information referred to in this sub-paragraph is, in relation to each member of staff in post on 1st August 2007 who was appointed at any time before 1st May 2007, whether each check referred to in sub-paragraph (3) was made and whether an enhanced criminal record certificate was obtained, together with the date on which any check was completed or certificate obtained.

p.20

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

 21(5) The information referred to in this sub-paragraph is, in relation to supply staff–

p.20

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 21(5)(a) whether written notification has been received from the employment business that–

p.20

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 21(5)(a)(i) checks corresponding to those referred to in sub-paragraph (3)(a)(i) to (iv), (vi) and (vii) have been made to the extent relevant to any such person; and

p.20

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 21(5)(a)(ii) an enhanced criminal record check has been made and that it or another employment business has obtained an enhanced criminal record certificate in response to such a check

p.20

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

together with the date the written notification that each such check was made, or certificate obtained , was received

p.20

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 21(5)(b) whether a check has been made in accordance with paragraph 19(2)(e) together with the date the check was completed; and

p.20

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

– 21(5)(c) where written notification has been received from the employment business in accordance with a contract or other arrangements referred to in paragraph 19(2)(d) that it has obtained an enhanced criminal record certificate, whether the employment business supplied a copy of the certificate to the school.

p.20

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

 21(6) The information referred to in this sub-paragraph is, in relation each member ("MB") of a body of persons named as the proprietor appointed on or after 1st May 2007, whether the checks referred to in paragraph 20(6)(b) were made, the date they were made and the date on which the resulting certificate was obtained.

p.20

Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

 23(1) Subject to sub-paragraph (2), the standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that–

p.20

Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

– 23(1)(a) suitable toilet and washing facilities are provided for the sole use of pupils – 23(1)(c) suitable changing accommodation and showers are provided for pupils aged 11 years or over at the start of the school year who receive physical education.

p.20

Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

 24(1) The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that suitable accommodation is provided in order to cater for the medical and therapy needs of pupils, including–

p.21

Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

– 24(1)(a) accommodation for the medical examination and treatment of pupils

p.21

Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

– 24(1)(b) accommodation for the short term care of sick and injured pupils, which includes a washing facility and is near to a toilet facility; and

p.21

Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

 24(2) The accommodation provided under sub-paragraphs (1)(a) and (b) may be used for other purposes (apart from teaching) provided it is always readily available to be used for the purposes set out in sub-paragraphs (1)(a) and (b).

p.21

Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

 25 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that the school premises and the accommodation and facilities provided therein are maintained to a standard such that, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of pupils are ensured.

p.21

Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

 27 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that–

p.21

Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

– 27(b) external lighting is provided in order to ensure that people can safely enter and leave the school premises.

p.21

Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

 28(1) The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that–

p.21

Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

– 28(1)(a) suitable drinking water facilities are provided

p.21

Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

– 28(1)(b) toilets and urinals have an adequate supply of cold water and washing facilities have an adequate supply of hot and cold water

p.21

Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

– 28(1)(c) cold water supplies that are suitable for drinking are clearly marked as such; and

p.21

Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

– 28(1)(d) the temperature of hot water at the point of use does not pose a scalding risk to users.

p.21

Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

 28(2) The facilities provided under sub-paragraph (1)(a) will be suitable only if–

p.21

Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

– 28(2)(a) they are readily accessible at all times when the premises are in use.

p.21

Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

 29(1) The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that suitable outdoor space is provided in order to enable–

p.21

Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

– 29(1)(a) physical education to be provided to pupils in accordance with the school curriculum; and – 29(1)(b) pupils to play outside.

p.21

Part 6. Provision of information

 32(1) The standard about the provision of information by the school is met if the proprietor ensures that–

p.22

Part 6. Provision of information

– 32(1)(a) the information specified in sub-paragraph (2) is provided to parents of pupils and parents of prospective pupils and, on request, to the Chief Inspector[14], the Secretary of State or an independent inspectorate[15]

p.22

Part 6. Provision of information

– 32(1)(b) the information specified in sub-paragraph (3) is made available to parents of pupils and parents of prospective pupils and, on request, to the Chief Inspector, the Secretary of State or an independent inspectorate

p.22

Part 6. Provision of information

– 32(1)(c) particulars of the arrangements for meeting the standard contained in paragraph 7 are published on the school’s internet website or, where no such website exists, are provided to parents on request

p.22

Part 6. Provision of information

– 32(1)(f) an annual written report of each registered pupil’s progress and attainment in the main subject areas taught is provided to the parents of that registered pupil except that no report need be provided where the parent has agreed otherwise

p.22

Part 6. Provision of information

– 32(1)(g) any information reasonably requested in connection with an inspection under section 109 of the 2008 Act which is required for the purposes of the inspection is provided to the body conducting the inspection and that body is given access to the school’s admission and attendance registers

p.22

Part 6. Provision of information

– 32(1)(h) where a pupil wholly or partly funded by a local authority (except where funding is solely for free of charge early years provision in accordance with the duty contained in section 7 of the Childcare Act 2006[16]) is registered at the school, an annual account of income received and expenditure incurred by the school in respect of that pupil is provided to the local authority and, on request, to the Secretary of State

p.22

Part 6. Provision of information

– 32(1)(i) where a pupil with an EHC plan wholly or partly funded by a local authority or other body through public funds is registered at the school, such information as may reasonably be required for the purpose of the annual review of the EHC plan is provided to the responsible local authority.

p.22

Part 6. Provision of information

 32(2) The information specified in this sub-paragraph is–

p.22

Part 6. Provision of information

– 32(2)(a) the school’s address and telephone number and the name of the head teacher

p.22

Part 6. Provision of information

– 32(2)(b) either– – 32(2)(b)(i) where the proprietor is an individual, the proprietor’s full name, address for correspondence during both term-time and holidays and a telephone number or numbers on which the proprietor may be contacted, or

p.22

Part 6. Provision of information

– 32(2)(c) where there is a governing body, the name and address for correspondence of its Chair; and

p.23

Part 6. Provision of information

– 32(2)(d) a statement of the school’s ethos (including any religious ethos) and aims.

p.23

Part 6. Provision of information

 32(3) The information specified in this sub-paragraph is–

p.23

Part 6. Provision of information

– 32(3)(a) particulars of the school’s policy on and arrangements for admissions, misbehaviour and exclusions

p.23

Part 6. Provision of information

– 32(3)(b) particulars of educational and welfare provision for pupils with EHC plans and pupils for whom English is an additional language

p.23

Part 6. Provision of information

– 32(3)(c) particulars of the policy referred to in paragraph 2

p.23

Part 6. Provision of information

– 32(3)(d) particulars of arrangements for meeting the standards contained in paragraphs 9, 10, 11 and 13

p.23

Part 6. Provision of information

– 32(3)(e) particulars of the school’s academic performance during the preceding school year, including the results of any public examinations

p.23

Part 6. Provision of information

– 32(3)(f) details of the complaints procedure referred to in paragraph 33, and the number of complaints registered under the formal procedure during the preceding school year.

p.23

Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled

 33 The standard about the manner in which complaints are handled is met if the proprietor ensures that a complaints procedure is drawn up and effectively implemented which deals with the handling of complaints from parents of pupils and which–

p.23

Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled

– 33(c) sets out clear time scales for the management of a complaint

p.23

Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled

– 33(e) where the parent is not satisfied with the response to the complaint made in accordance with sub-paragraph (d), establishes a formal procedure for the complaint to be made in writing

p.23

Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled

– 33(f) where the parent is not satisfied with the response to the complaint made in accordance with sub-paragraph (e), makes provision for a hearing before a panel appointed by or on behalf of the proprietor and consisting of at least three people who were not directly involved in the matters detailed in the complaint

p.23

Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled

– 33(g) ensures that, where there is a panel hearing of a complaint, one panel member is independent of the management and running of the school

p.23

Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled

– 33(h) allows for a parent to attend and be accompanied at a panel hearing if they wish

p.24

Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled

– 33(i) provides for the panel to make findings and recommendations and stipulates that a copy of those findings and recommendations is–

p.24

Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled

– 33(i)(i) provided to the complainant and, where relevant, the person complained about; and

p.24

Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled

– 33(i)(ii) available for inspection on the school premises by the proprietor and the head teacher

p.24

Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled

– 33(j) provides for a written record to be kept of all complaints that are made in accordance with sub-paragraph (e) and–

p.24

Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled

– 33(j)(i) whether they are resolved following a formal procedure, or proceed to a panel hearing; and

p.24

Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled

– 33(j)(ii) action taken by the school as a result of those complaints (regardless of whether they are upheld); and

p.24

Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled

– 33(k) provides that correspondence, statements and records relating to individual complaints are to be kept confidential except where the Secretary of State or a body conducting an inspection under section 109 of the 2008 Act requests access to them.

p.24

Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

 34(1) The standard about the quality of leadership and management is met if the proprietor ensures that persons with leadership and management responsibilities at the school–

p.24

Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

– 34(1)(a) demonstrate good skills and knowledge appropriate to their role so that the independent school standards are met consistently

p.24

Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

– 34(1)(b) fulfil their responsibilities effectively so that the independent school standards are met consistently; and

p.24

Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

– 34(1)(c) actively promote the well-being of pupils.

p.24

Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010

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.25

Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010

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.25

Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010

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.25

Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010

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 children looked after, safeguarding and child protection.

p.25

Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010

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.25

Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010

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p.25

Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010

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

p.25