On Track Education Silverstone

School material change inspection report

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On Track Education Centre (Silsoe) Building 53, Wrest Park, Silsoe, Bedfordshire MK45 4HS

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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)(g), 2(2)(h), 2(2)(i), 3(i), 3(j)  The proprietor has ensured that the curriculum policy is supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work. Students in key stage 5 and beyond will be able to resit or take further GCSE qualifications. There will be A-level qualifications available in a range of subjects, that will be taught by qualified teachers.  Post-16 students will, therefore, have a programme of activities which is appropriate to their needs. They will have opportunities to learn and make progress and be prepared well for the responsibilities and experiences of life in British society.  The plans and schemes of work take into account the aptitudes and needs of all pupils, including those with education, health and care plans. The plans and schemes promote fundamental British values of, for example, showing tolerance and respect

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Main inspection findings

towards those with different faiths and beliefs. The headteacher plans to take pupils to visit local places of worship in Northampton, to help prepare them for life in modern Britain.  The plans and schemes of work will ensure that pupils in key stage 5 and beyond will develop their knowledge, skills and understanding across a wide range of subjects. Pupils will experience mathematical and linguistic development alongside scientific, creative, technological, social and physical development. Pupils will also have opportunities to learn a wide variety of vocational qualifications including those in construction, hair and beauty, and food technology. Paragraph 2(2), 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)  The proprietor has ensured that the personal, social, health and economic curriculum encourages pupils to have respect for other people, paying regard to the protected

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Main inspection findings

characteristics set out in the 2010 Equalities Act. For example, there is a planned unit of work linked to diversity.  The proprietor has ensured that all pupils, and post-16 students, will receive appropriate careers advice and guidance, using the government recommended ‘Gatsby benchmarks’. The headteacher will ensure that all pupils receive independent careers advice from Year 7. There will also be opportunities for pupils to undertake work experience, work exposure and an annual careers interview. This will help to ensure that pupils are prepared well for the next stage of their employment, education or training. Paragraph 3, 3(a), 3(b), 3(c), 3(d), 3(e), 3(f), 3(g), 3(h)  The schemes of work and curriculum content taught by teachers will enable pupils to acquire knowledge and make good progress according to their ability. Teachers will use pupils’ prior attainment information to provide appropriate support to ensure that

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Main inspection findings

pupils make the progress they should.  The headteacher has ensured that there is a comprehensive assessment framework in place to monitor the progress that pupils make in a wide range of subjects. This framework is in the process of being adapted to cater for those pupils entering key stage 5 and beyond.  The headteacher and staff will closely monitor the behaviour of pupils in classes, around the school and outside in the playgrounds. The school’s behaviour management policy sets out clearly, for example, how behaviour support plans, rewards and sanctions for pupils will be used by staff.  An online tool will be used to record any incidents of poor behaviour. This tool will enable the headteacher to identify any patterns and triggers, therefore reducing the number that occur. Paragraph 4  Parents and carers will receive an annual written report that will provide them with information regarding the progress their children have made in their learning,

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Main inspection findings

behaviour and attitudes towards school.  The school is likely to continue to meet the independent school standards in this part, if the school receives approval for the implementation of the material change.

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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)  The proprietor will actively promote the fundamental British values. Classroom displays inform pupils regarding the rule of law, democracy and individual liberty. Pupils will experience visits to local places of worship and religious festivals such as Diwali, Ramadan, Hanukkah and Eid. This work will deepen their understanding of mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.  The proprietor will ensure that pupils acquire respect for their own and other cultures by having theme days that encourage pupils to explore life in other countries, learn key phrases in another language and experience traditional meals from around the world.  The school’s behaviour management policy encourages and rewards pupils to

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Main inspection findings

encourage them to accept responsibility for their behaviour and enables them to distinguish right from wrong.  Pupils will be able to experience democracy through the formation of a school council. A suggestion box will allow pupils to propose potential improvements to the school and therefore experience tolerance and respect for those who may have views different to their own.  The proprietor will ensure that pupils are presented with a balanced point of view regarding political issues. This includes when pupils attend the school, taking part in any extra-curricular activity or if any promotional material is distributed of extra- curricular activities taking place at the school or elsewhere.  The school is likely to continue to meet the independent school standards in this part, if the school receives approval for the implementation of the material change.

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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 is available on the school’s website and contains references to all relevant guidance. There are clear procedures in place for staff to follow should they have a concern relating to the welfare of a pupil. Staff are aware of these procedures and have followed them in the past. Records show that swift action has been taken when the involvement of an outside agency, such as social care, is required.  The designated and deputy safeguarding leads have received relevant safeguarding training in a wide range of areas including in the safer recruitment of staff, the ‘Prevent’ duty and spotting the signs of child sexual exploitation. Other staff are well trained in spotting the signs of neglect and female genital mutilation, for example. All staff have received safer handling training.  Pupils are encouraged to stay safe through the well-planned personal, social, health

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Main inspection findings

and economic curriculum. Planned topics include the misuse of alcohol and drugs, sex and relationships education and the promotion of emotional well-being. Paragraph 11, 12, 14, 16, 16(a), 16(b)  The school has appropriate health and safety policies and procedures in place. Staff have received relevant first aid training.  The headteacher has a good understanding of the responsibilities and duties with regard to fire safety. The proposed new site will use the same professionals that are currently being used at the existing school to undertake fire risk assessments, annual checks of fire extinguishers, portable appliance testing of electrical equipment, and health and safety checks.  The headteacher will ensure that pupils are properly supervised through the appropriate deployment of school staff. Staff to pupil ratios are particularly high.  The school’s policy for undertaking risk assessments is appropriate. The headteacher

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Main inspection findings

writes detailed and specific risk assessments for each pupil when they are on the school site or on an educational visit.  The school is likely to continue to meet the independent school standards in this part, if the school receives approval for the implementation of the material change.

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Main inspection findings

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors Paragraph 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(3), 21(1), 21(2)  All staff currently working at the Silsoe site will be transferred over to the proposed premises at Pits Farm. Checks on their suitability have, therefore, already been undertaken.  The proprietor has ensured that before commencing employment, all relevant checks are made on individuals. These include checks on adults’ identity, professional qualifications, right to work in the UK, employment history and with the Disclosure and Barring Service. Paragraph 19(1), 19(2), 19(2)(a), 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 ensured that before commencing employment, all relevant checks

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Main inspection findings

are made on individuals who may be employed as supply staff. 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)  All relevant checks are made on those individuals who are members of the body of persons named as the proprietor of the school.

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Main inspection findings

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)(v), 21(3)(a)(vi), 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), 21(7)(b), 21(8)  The proprietor has ensured that a register is in place, which meets current government legislation and requirements.  The school is likely to continue to meet the independent school standards in this part, if the school receives approval for the implementation of the material change.

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Main inspection findings

Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools  The following reporting relates to the proposed premises at Pits Farm, Northampton. Paragraph 23(1), 23(1)(a), 23(1)(b), 23(1)(c), 28(1), 28(1)(b), 28(1)(d)  The proprietor has ensured that suitable toilet and washing facilities will be provided for the sole use of pupils and that these are separate facilities, as the pupils are over eight years of age. There are suitable changing facilities and a planned shower for pupils to use after they participation in physical education (PE).  The proprietor has ensured that the toilets and urinals have an adequate supply of hot and cold water and washing facilities. Measures have been taken to ensure the temperature of the hot water does not pose a risk of scalding. Paragraph 24(1), 24(1)(a), 24(1)(b), 24(2)  The proprietor has ensured that a suitable room has been provided to cater for the medical and therapy needs of pupils, including accommodation for the short-term care

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Main inspection findings

of sick and injured pupils. This room includes a washing facility and is close to a toilet facility. It will always be readily available to be in use when required. Paragraph 25  When completed, the school’s facilities and premises will ensure that pupils’ health, safety and welfare are not at risk. The school grounds are away from any roads and security cameras highlight potential visitors before they will be allowed into the building. Paragraph 26, 27, 27(a), 27(b)  The lighting and acoustic conditions in each proposed classroom, the hair salon and in the construction workshop are appropriate. External lighting to help ensure pupils’ and visitors’ safety at night is available, and will be checked frequently. Paragraph 28(1), 28(1)(a), 28(1)(c), 28(2), 28(2)(a), 28(2)(b)  Pupils have access to drinking water through water fountains and the opportunity to fill up their own water bottles. These facilities are always available and are in separate

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Main inspection findings

areas from the toilets. Paragraph 29(1), 29(1)(a), 29(1)(b)  There are two areas for pupils to play and undertake PE outside. One is a multi-use games area, that is marked out for football, badminton and netball. The other is large enough for pupils to play games, run and exercise.  The school is likely to continue to meet the independent school standards in this part, if the school receives approval for the implementation of the material change and once the building work is completed.

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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 has ensured that the headteacher demonstrates good skills and knowledge appropriate to the role. Existing good practice at the Silsoe site will be transferred across to the Pits Farm site. This includes existing schemes of work, lesson planning formats and a system for checking pupils’ progress and attainment in a wide range of subjects. Other transferable systems incorporate aspects of health and safety, safeguarding pupils from harm and the recruitment of any new staff.  The proprietor will hold the headteacher to account through frequent visits to the school and by asking questions during frequent, formal meetings. The proprietor will also undertake monitoring activities around the health and safety of pupils, their attendance and the progress they are making.  There are frequent opportunities for pupils to learn how to keep themselves safe and

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Main inspection findings

become responsible citizens through the comprehensive personal, social, health and economic curriculum. All staff have undertaken appropriate safeguarding training and are clear regarding the procedures to follow should they have a concern regarding a pupil’s welfare.  The school is likely to continue to meet the independent school standards in this part, if the school receives approval for the implementation of the material change.

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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 that are relevant to the material change.

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School details

This inspection was carried out under section 162(4) of the Education Act 2002, the purpose of which is to advise the Secretary of State for Education about the school’s likely compliance with the independent school standards relevant to the material change that the school has applied to make.

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School details

Website www.ontrackeducation.com/schools/silsoe

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School details

Email address nhopper@ontrackeducation.com

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School details

Date of previous standard inspection 28–30 November 2017

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recommendation

Age range of pupils 11 to 16 11 to 19 11 to 19

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recommendation

Number of pupils on the school roll 15 40 40

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Gender of pupils Mixed Mixed Number of full-time pupils of compulsory school age 15 40

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of part-time pupils 0 Not exceeding the full-time equivalent of 40

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities 5 40

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Of which, number of pupils with an education, health and care plan 5 40

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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 5 40

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of full-time equivalent teaching staff 13 20

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Information about this school

 On Track Education Centre is small independent special school. Most pupils experience social, emotional and mental health difficulties. All pupils have been, or are at risk of being, permanently excluded from school.  The school is currently operating from Building 53, Wrest Park, Silsoe, Bedfordshire MK45 4HS.  The proposed address is Pits Farm, Towcester Road, Silverstone, Northamptonshire NN12 8UB.  Staffing at the new premises will be the same as that found in the current premises.  Pupils attend the school from Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire. Historically, a small number of pupils have been looked after by the local authority. Currently, all pupils on the school roll have education, health and care plans.  The school uses the services of C&G Plastering Academy, 7, Hill Coles Farm, London Rd, St Albans AL3 8HA, as an alternative provider.  The school’s previous full inspection was in November 2017, where it was judged to

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Information about this school

be good in all areas.  The school aims to ‘support, nurture, inspire and empower’ its pupils.

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Information about this inspection

 This inspection was carried out under section 162(4) of the Education Act 2002, to check the school’s compliance with the independent school standards relevant to the school’s application to make material changes to its provision. These changes are to admit pupils aged up to 19 and increase the number of pupils on roll to 40. New premises for all the pupils aged 11 to 19 are also part of the material change.  The registration authority for independent schools commissioned the inspector to inspect the quality of the school’s education relating to the pupils the school now wishes to begin to teach. The inspector was also commissioned to inspect the school’s new buildings and facilities at Pits Farm, Northampton and its provision for the welfare, health and safety of all pupils.  The inspector met with the headteacher and a director. He undertook a tour of the new proposed premises and scrutinised documentation relating to assessment and the

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Information about this inspection

curriculum. He also looked at a wide range of policies including those relating to safeguarding, behaviour, health and safety, and risk assessment.  The inspector did not speak with any pupils, or observe any teaching and learning, as the school had not yet opened.

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Inspection team

Peter Stonier, 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 .

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Inspection team

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Inspection team

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Inspection team

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Inspection team

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Inspection team

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Inspection team

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