Ascend Education

School pre-registration inspection report

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Ascend Education Dartmouth House, Sandwell Road, Sandwell, West Bromwich, West Midlands B70 8TQ

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Main inspection findings

Part 1. Quality of education provided Paragraphs 2(1)(b)(ii), 2(2)(a), 2(2)(b), 2(2)(e), 2(2)(e)(i), 2(2)(e)(ii), 2(2)(e)(iii), 2(2)(i), 3(b), 3(f), 3(h), 3(i), 3(j) and 4  The proposed school’s curriculum gives pupils access to full-time education and a broad range of subjects. All pupils will have opportunities to develop their literacy and numeracy skills.  The proposed school has plans in place to provide suitable, impartial careers advice and guidance. This is a balance of one-to-one sessions and small group workshops. The programme is intended to support pupils to develop independence and encourage them to fulfil their potential.  There are a range of specialised facilities already in use across the proposed school’s sites. Leaders are aware of the additional resources that would be required to teach subjects not currently offered, for example science.  Parents and carers will be informed of their children’s progress through an annual

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Main inspection findings

written report. They will also receive termly written updates. Parents will have opportunities to visit classes during the school day and to talk about their children’s progress directly with staff.  Leaders have ensured that these standards are likely to be met. Paragraphs 2(1), 2(1)(a), 2(1)(b), 2(1)(b)(i), 2(2), 2(2)(d), 2(2)(d)(i), 2(2)(d)(ii), 2(2)(g), 2(2)(h), 3, 3(a), 3(c), 3(d), 3(e) and 3(g)  There is a curriculum policy but it does not contain enough detail about how the proposed school will cater for pupils with differing needs or levels of ability. There is no information about the school’s overall approach to the curriculum, what it is trying to achieve or how it intends to implement its plans.  Schemes of work have been written for all year groups and for a variety of subjects. However, these plans are very variable in quality. The style and approach used are not consistent within or across subjects. It is clear that some schemes of work have been

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Main inspection findings

created by drawing together information from a range of random sources and without the oversight or expertise of a subject leader. Many schemes of work, such as history and art, do not show how lessons will build on pupils’ prior knowledge. As a result, the schemes of work are highly unlikely to meet the needs of the pupils attending the school, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities.  Some schemes of work make reference to the national curriculum but this is not consistent. Other schemes of work suggest that all pupils in key stage 3 will follow the same curriculum, for example in English and information and communication technology. However, there is no evidence of a rolling two- or three-year curriculum programme for these subjects. It is not clear how the curriculum would enable pupils to make progress in these subjects.  The proposed curriculum for post-16 students will consist of a variety of vocational

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Main inspection findings

courses, A levels and access courses. However, the schemes of work for these programmes lack detail. It is not clear how they would be adapted to meet the needs and abilities of all students.  While all pupils would have opportunities to learn about topics such as drug awareness, knife crime and sexual health, the proposed school does not have a coherent scheme of work for personal, social, health and economic education. In addition, the proposed curriculum does not pay particular regard to the protected characteristics set out in The Equality Act 2010.  The assessment policy lacks detail and is not well matched to the proposed school’s curriculum or potential pupils’ needs.  Leaders have not ensured that these standards are likely to be met. Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils Paragraphs 5(b)(i), 5(c), 5(d), 5(d)(i), 5(d)(ii) and 5(d)(iii)  Currently, leaders work with a range of external agencies to help pupils access

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Main inspection findings

counselling, mentoring and specialist input, for example for mental health needs. This work supports pupils to develop their self-esteem and confidence. It is likely that the proposed school will continue to provide this high level of input for pupils.  Leaders intend for the curriculum to be non-partisan. They will take steps to ensure that pupils are presented with a balance of different views.  Leaders have ensured that these standards are likely to be met.

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Main inspection findings

Paragraphs 5, 5(a), 5(b), 5(b)(ii), 5(b)(iii), 5(b)(iv), 5(b)(v), 5(b)(vi) and 5(b)(vii)  Current pupils experience elements of spiritual, moral, social and cultural (SMSC) education. For example, pupils have opportunities to discuss current affairs such as Brexit and the forthcoming general election. They learn about some religious festivals and complete training to raise awareness of the dangers of radicalisation and extremism. However, these elements are not planned methodically enough to ensure that all pupils in the proposed school would access a consistent SMSC curriculum.  A strong element of the proposed school’s work is to encourage pupils to act responsibly and contribute positively to the community. This can be seen in the work of current pupils. However, the range of opportunities open to individual pupils is not consistent. There is no systematic plan to ensure that all pupils in the proposed school

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Main inspection findings

will be helped to make a positive contribution to society.  The proposed school’s schemes of work do not actively promote fundamental British values and policies do not have sufficient regard for The Equality Act 2010 and the associated duties.  Leaders have not ensured that these standards are likely to be met. Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils Paragraphs 9(a), 10 and 14  The behaviour and anti-bullying policies are clear and meet requirements. School leaders currently work closely with pupils, their parents and external agencies to help manage behaviour effectively.  Current pupils are well supervised throughout the day and there is a high adult to pupil ratio. Leaders plan to maintain the high level of supervision in the proposed school.  Leaders have ensured that these standards are likely to be met. Paragraphs 7, 7(a), 7(b), 9, 9(b), 9(c), 11, 12, 13, 15, 16, 16(a) and 16(b)  The proposed school’s safeguarding policy is not fit for purpose. It does not reflect the

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Main inspection findings

most recent guidance issued by the Secretary of State. For example, the policy contains no mention of key aspects, such as peer-on-peer abuse; honour-based violence; safer recruitment; or supporting pupils with special needs/vulnerabilities.  Leaders are clear about when and how to make a referral to social care. They take appropriate steps to safeguard pupils. However, concerns and actions are not consistently well recorded and information is kept in a number of different places. This means that there is a potential risk of key information being missed.  Neither the proprietor or school leaders have completed safer recruitment training. Some staff files are incomplete. Checklists for staff employment records and induction are available but these have not been used.  There is no admissions register. Relevant information for current pupils is available but it is not kept within one document. Attendance records are confusing, with inspectors

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Main inspection findings

being shown a number of different registers during the inspection.  Leaders can talk about the actions that they have taken to address incidents of poor behaviour for current pupils. However, current recording systems are inadequate and important information is not easily available. Leaders do not have clear records of the sanctions imposed upon pupils for serious misbehaviour, including where pupils have been excluded from school. Leaders do have plans in place to introduce a system to record and track behaviour in the proposed school.  Leaders have drawn up a clear health and safety policy. While some elements of the policy have been implemented effectively, such as access to and egress from the building, the proprietor has not ensured that the policy is consistently met. For example, some windows open too widely and pose a potential risk to pupils. Additionally, following a recent fire risk assessment, there are a number of areas that

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Main inspection findings

must be addressed, as soon as reasonably practicable, to ensure the safety of pupils and staff.  School leaders allow current pupils to smoke during the school day, albeit with parental permission and off-site. This is not conducive to pupils’ health and well-being.  First aid is administered in a timely and competent manner. However, the first aid policy shown to inspectors was written for another school. As a result, it may not meet the needs of the proposed school’s pupils.  An appropriate risk assessment policy is in place but it is not implemented effectively. This is because not all risk assessments are robust enough to safeguard pupils. For example, control measures in use at the construction base use ‘should’ rather ‘must’ in relation to reporting defective equipment.  Leaders have not ensured that these standards are likely to be met. Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

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Main inspection findings

Paragraphs 18(2)(d)  All members of staff do have an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check.  Leaders have ensured that this standard is likely to be met.

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Main inspection findings

Paragraphs 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)(e), 18(3), 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), 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(5), 21(5)(a), 21(5)(a)(i), 21(5)(a)(ii), 21(5)(b) and 21(5)(c)  The proprietor has not ensured that suitable pre-employment checks have been carried out on all the members of staff currently in post.  Pre-employment checks are not recorded accurately on the school’s single central record and there are gaps in information recorded for some staff. Furthermore, the school’s single central record does not include all current members of staff.  Leaders are not aware of what information should be included in the single central

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Main inspection findings

record and there is a significant amount of information missing. For example, no prohibition from teaching checks have been made and no additional checks have been made on staff who have lived or worked overseas.  The single central record contains no information relating to governors.  The proposed school intends to use supply staff but the processes to record relevant information in relation to these staff is not yet in place.  Leaders have not ensured that these standards are likely to be met. Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools Paragraphs 23(1), 23(1)(a), 23(1)(b), 23(1)(c), 24(1)(a), 26, 27, 27(a), 27(b), 28(1)(a), 28(1)(d), 28(2), 28(2)(a), 28(2)(b), 29(1), 29(1)(a) and 29(1)(b)  Leaders have created a welcoming and positive learning environment. Rooms are appropriately furnished with adequate heating, lighting and acoustics.  Appropriate toilet facilities are in place.  The proposed school does not have any outdoor space for pupils to play in but, with

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Main inspection findings

supervision, pupils can access a local park. This provision is in place for current pupils although they rarely make use of it. Physical education lessons are to take place off- site, using local leisure facilities. The use of these facilities will include access to appropriate changing accommodation and showers.  Pupils have ready access to drinking water.  Leaders have ensured that these standards are likely to be met. Paragraphs 24(1), 24(1)(b), 24(2), 25, 28(1), 28(1)(b) and 28(1)(c)  Accommodation for the short-term care of sick and injured pupils is unsuitable. At the main school site, the first aid accommodation is a teaching space and is not located near to a toilet. At the satellite bases, there are currently no facilities for treating sick or injured pupils.  The proprietor has not ensured that the main school site is maintained to a standard to ensure the health, safety and welfare of pupils. This is because fire safety

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Main inspection findings

requirements are not met and some first-floor windows open too widely.  At one of the satellite bases, the wash hand basins in the toilet facilities do not have hot water.  At the satellite bases, drinking water is available but it is not clearly labelled as such.  Leaders have not ensured that these standards are likely to be met. Part 6. Provision of information Paragraphs 32(1), 32(1)(a), 32(1)(b), 32(1)(c), 32(1)(d), 32(1)(f), 32(1)(g), 32(1)(h), 32(1)(i), 32(1)(j), 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) and 32(3)(g)  The proposed school is planning to have its own website but this is not currently operational. In the meantime, the proposed school will provide information to parents and relevant external agencies on request. This includes the school’s safeguarding policy.  Leaders are clear about the information to be made available to parents and relevant

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Main inspection findings

external agencies. The school has the required policies in place although some policies need to be revised to ensure that they accurately reflect the proposed school’s planned provision.  Leaders have created a template for an annual report to parents, so that parents can be kept informed about their children’s progress.  Leaders have ensured that these standards are likely to be met. Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled Paragraphs 33(a), 33(b), 33(c), 33(d), 33(e), 33(f), 33(g), 33(h), 33(i)(ii), 33(j)(i) and 33(k)  The proposed school’s complaints policy sets out clear timescales for the management of a complaint and explains the informal and formal stages for considering a complaint.  As the proposed school does not yet have a website, copies of the policy will be made available to parents on request.  Leaders have ensured that these standards are likely to be met. Paragraphs 33, 33(i), 33(i)(i), 33(j) and 33(j)(ii)

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Main inspection findings

 The proposed school’s complaints policy does not state how the findings of any complaint will be shared with the complainant and the person complained about. Leaders have not considered how any actions taken as the result of a complaint will be shared with relevant parties.  Leaders have not ensured that these standards are likely to be met. 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 has not ensured that all the independent school standards are likely to be met consistently. There are widespread weaknesses including safeguarding, the safe recruitment of staff, the welfare of pupils and the quality of the curriculum to be provided.  Leaders are not familiar with all the requirements of the independent school standards and how to ensure that they are met consistently. Several of the documents submitted to the Department for Education as part of the application process were not fit for

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Main inspection findings

purpose.  The headteacher and chair of the governing body need to address some issues to ensure that current pupils are safe. For example, they need to make sure that windows cannot open too widely and that staff are recruited following safer recruitment guidelines.  Leaders have not ensured that these standards are likely to be met. Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010  The proprietor has adapted an accessibility plan drawn up for another provider. Some information within the plan is not applicable to the proposed school. The plan contains no relevant information about how the proprietor intends to improve access to the physical environment of the school. As a result, the proprietor has not ensured that the school is likely to fulfil all its responsibilities under Schedule 10 of The Equality Act 2010.

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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

Email address info@ascendtrainingwestmidlands.com

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Proposed school details

Date of previous standard inspection Not previously inspected

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Provider already operating

Number of pupils of compulsory school age 20 Number of pupils of compulsory school age for whom a statement is maintained under section 324, or who is looked after by a local authority Total hours operating as a school per week 22.5 hours, excluding breaktimes

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Provider already operating

Total hours of teaching provided per week Maximum 14 hours per pupil

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recommendation

Age range of pupils 14–16 11–18 11–18 Number of pupils on the school roll 20 36 27

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recommendation

Reason for inspector’s recommendations  The headteacher and chair of governors reviewed the school’s original proposal during the inspection. They clarified that the school intends to offer educational provision for a maximum of 36 pupils. This is a maximum of 30 pupils at the main school site and a maximum of three pupils at each of the two satellite bases. Leaders accept that the main school site in its current form can accommodate a maximum of 21 pupils.  The headteacher and chair of governors asked to amend the application form to register as an independent school to reduce the range of special educational needs that the school will provide for. The proposed school will cater for pupils with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs, moderate learning difficulties (MLD), specific learning difficulties (SpLD), speech, language and communication needs (SLCN) and autistic spectrum disorders (ASD).

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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 0 15

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities 20 20

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Of which, number of pupils with an education, health and care plan 0 10

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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 0 10

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of full-time equivalent teaching staff 3 5

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of staff in the welfare provision 3 7

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Information about this proposed school

 The proposed school is currently operating as a part-time alternative provider for pupils who are vulnerable to exclusion or who have been excluded from school. All pupils have special educational needs and/or disabilities. Most pupils are currently placed at the provider by Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council.  The proposed school is situated in three locations. The main school site is at Dartmouth House, Sandwell Road, West Bromwich, B70 8TQ. The proposed school will use two satellite bases. Construction will be taught at Unit 11b, Robbins Business Park, Bagnell Street, Great Bridge, Tipton, DY4 7BS. Mechanics will be taught at Unit 8, Potter Lane, Wednesbury, WS10 0AS.  The main school site is situated on the first floor of a two-storey office building. The premises currently consist of two general classroom areas, a number of specialised rooms for vocational tuition, space for one-to-one sessions, a kitchen, a social area and

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Information about this proposed school

office/administration areas. The specialised facilities are equipped for the teaching of hairdressing, make-up and beauty, health and social care, child care, and animal husbandry. Together with the landlord, the school has plans to expand the provision to include a number of additional teaching rooms and a first aid room. These additional facilities are not currently available.  The proposed school intends to offer up to 36 places for pupils aged 11 to 18 years. These are likely to be pupils who are vulnerable to exclusion from school and/or have a special education need, specifically: SEMH, MLD, SpLD, SLCN or ASD. Some pupils may have an education, health and care plan.  It is proposed that local authorities and local schools will place pupils at the school.  The proposed school’s vision is ‘In order for our students to be the best they can be, we support them to conquer their fears and strive to greatness. Through the journey of

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Information about this proposed school

self-discovery, they will realise that they will never be given a dream that they cannot achieve.’  The chair of the governing body was appointed in August 2019.  The proposed school does not have a religious character.

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Information about this inspection

 This was the proposed school’s first pre-registration inspection, carried out at the request of the Department for Education under section 99 of the Education and Skills Act 2008.  Inspectors met with the proposed school’s headteacher, chair of governors and members of staff.  The proprietor was unavailable during the inspection.  Inspectors conducted a tour of the main school site, accompanied by the headteacher. One inspector visited the two satellite bases which form part of the proposed school’s provision, accompanied by the headteacher.  One inspector met with a group of pupils and visited a sample of lessons.  Inspectors reviewed a wide range of documentation, including several policies, schemes of work, risk assessments, safeguarding information and the single central record.

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Inspection team

Catherine Crooks, 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; and

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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)(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)(g) where the school has pupils above compulsory school age, a programme of activities which is appropriate to their needs;

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

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

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

 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(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(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 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)(ii) enable pupils to distinguish right from wrong and to respect the civil and criminal law of England;

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

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

 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

 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 the 2006 Act where that person is or will be engaging in activity which is regulated activity within the meaning of Part 1 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 – 18(2)(c)(iv) where appropriate, the person’s qualifications;

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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

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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.

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

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

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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–

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

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

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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;

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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

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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

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

– 19(2)(a)(i)(dd) that, where that 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;

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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;

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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;

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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); – 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–

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

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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

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

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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–

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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;

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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;

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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;

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

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

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

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

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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

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

– 21(3)(a)(viii) checks were made pursuant to paragraph 18(2)(e)

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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.

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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–

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

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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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–

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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

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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).

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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.

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Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

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

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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;

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Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

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

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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–

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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–

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Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled

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

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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–

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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).

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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–

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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;

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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

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Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

– 34(1)(c) actively promote the well-being of pupils. 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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Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

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.

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Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

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

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Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

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.

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Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

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 .

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Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

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

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Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

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

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