Aspiration House School

School pre-registration inspection report

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Aspiration House School Freiston Hall, Church Road, Freiston, Boston PE22 0NX

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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)(g), 2(2)(h), 2(2)(i)  The proposed curriculum for pupils in key stages 2, 3 and 4 is based on the requirements of the national curriculum. It offers pupils experiences in a wide range of subjects which could support their all-round development. There are opportunities for pupils to develop their speaking and listening, literacy and numeracy skills.  Leaders’ plans do not take into account the different starting points and experiences pupils will have when they enter the school. They have not considered in any detail how they will adapt the curriculum to meet pupils’ individual needs, particularly those with education, health and care (EHC) plans. Pupils may not be prepared well enough for their next steps.

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Main inspection findings

 The curriculum policy and plans do not consider how leaders will provide for pupils above the compulsory school age a suitable programme of activities, which is appropriate to their needs.  The curriculum for personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) education is wide ranging. The plans show how pupils will learn about topics such as staying safe, managing relationships and how to prepare for working life. However, leaders’ plans do not make sure that pupils are encouraged to respect people of, for example, different sexual orientation, age or gender.  Leaders have some ideas as to how they can provide pupils with impartial careers advice and guidance. However, their plans are not well developed. Paragraph 3, 3(a), 3(b), 3(c), 3(d), 3(e), 3(f), 3(g), 3(h), 3(i), 3(j), 4  A suitable assessment system is in place. Pupils will be assessed when they begin at the school. Regular checks on pupils’ knowledge and understanding will allow teachers

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Main inspection findings

to use the information to plan pupils’ future learning.  The key stage 4 curriculum is planned to give pupils access to externally accredited courses, including functional skills, entry levels, GCSE and vocational pathways.  The PSHE curriculum demonstrates a commitment to developing pupils’ understanding of fundamental British values.  Leaders have effective plans in place to manage pupils’ behaviour and help them to act responsibly.  Leaders have not made sure that they have the resources necessary to implement the curriculum plans. For example, they do not have the English text books they need to teach the key stage 3 course.  Leaders have not considered what training staff may need. They have not ensured that staff will have the knowledge and understanding necessary to implement the curriculum effectively for each subject.  The school’s leaders have not ensured that standards are likely to be met in this part.

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Main inspection findings

Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils Paragraph 5, 5(a), 5(b)(i), 5(b)(ii), 5(b)(iii), 5(b)(iv), 5(b)(v), 5(b)(vii), 5(c), 5(d), 5(d)(i), 5(d)(ii), 5(d)(iii)  The school’s PSHE programme has a strong focus on pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. It is underpinned by the school’s three core principles of ‘validate, achieve and live’.  There are opportunities for pupils to develop an appreciation of fundamental British values. For example, curriculum plans show that younger pupils will consider their rights and responsibilities and what the law says.  Leaders will ensure that pupils learn about different faiths and cultures, including Judaism, Islam and Christianity, as part of religious education.  Leaders know how important it is to develop pupils’ self-confidence and independence, so they can think for themselves and make their own decisions. For

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Main inspection findings

instance, older pupils will learn how to deal with problems in everyday life.  Leaders have plans to involve pupils in local community projects, as well as promoting initiatives in the wider world.  Leaders expect pupils to receive a balanced set of views whenever they discuss different values and beliefs. Paragraph 5(b), 5(b)(vi)  Leaders have not ensured that they fulfil their legal duties under the Equality Act 2010. They are not aware of their responsibilities to have regard to the protected characteristics.  The school’s leaders have not ensured that standards are likely to be met in this part. Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils Paragraph 7, 7(a), 7(b)  The school’s safeguarding arrangements are not effective.  The school’s safeguarding policy has recently been updated. However, it does not have regard for the latest guidance issued by the Secretary of State.  Leaders do not have sufficient knowledge of their safeguarding responsibilities. They

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Main inspection findings

have not received appropriate training. For example, they are not aware of how to respond to an incident of child-on-child abuse. They do not know the signs that a pupil may be at risk of female genital mutilation. They do not know their statutory responsibilities to report concerns about radicalisation or extremism.  Leaders have no clear system in place to allow staff to raise a concern about the welfare of a pupil. They have not considered how they will maintain detailed records of their actions to keep pupils safe. Paragraph 9, 9(a), 9(b), 9(c), 10  The behaviour policy is fit for purpose. It outlines appropriate strategies to promote good behaviour, with associated rewards. However, leaders have not given enough thought to how they will record pupils’ misbehaviour and any resulting sanctions.  The exclusions policy makes clear what will happen if a pupil is temporarily or permanently removed from school. It also outlines parents’ and carers’ right to

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Main inspection findings

appeal.  The school has a suitable anti-bullying strategy, which identifies responses to different types of bullying. Paragraph 15  Leaders have not made appropriate arrangements to collate information about pupils’ attendance and admissions onto registers. Leaders are not confident about the procedures for checking whether a pupil who is absent from school is safe. They do not know their responsibilities to report a pupil who is missing from education. Paragraph 11  The headteacher has recently completed health-and-safety training. The health-and- safety policy is implemented effectively. Checks of the premises are completed regularly. Paragraph 12  A detailed fire-risk assessment of the site and premises has been completed recently. Leaders have responded promptly to all the action points to rectify any issues.  Leaders have established regular routines for checking and servicing the fire equipment. Procedures for evacuating the building are clear.

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Main inspection findings

Paragraph 13  The first-aid policy makes first-aid procedures clear. All staff will be trained to administer first aid when they join the school. At least one first-aider will accompany an educational visit off site. Records will be kept of any minor injuries and their treatment. Paragraph 14  Leaders’ plans indicate that pupils will be well supervised by staff. Paragraph 16, 16(a), 16(b)  Leaders have prepared a risk-assessment policy. Risk assessments are in place for the school site, including the ponds. Leaders have devised a system to produce risk assessments for learning activities, both on the school site and during educational visits.  A new electronic system will allow leaders to produce individual risk assessments for pupils when necessary.  The school’s leaders have not ensured that standards are likely to be met in this part. Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors Paragraph 18(2), 18(2)(a), 18(2)(b), 18(2)(c), 18(2)(c)(ii), 18(2)(c)(iii), 18(2)(c)(iv),

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Main inspection findings

18(2)(d), 18(2)(e), 18(3), 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), 21(1), 21(2), 21(3), 21(3)(a), 21(3)(a)(i), 21(3)(a)(ii), 21(3)(a)(iii), 21(3)(a)(iv), 21(3)(a)(v), 21(3)(a)(vi), 21(3)(a)(vii), 21(3)(a)(viii), 21(3)(b), 21(4), 21(6), 21(7), 21(7)(a), 21(7)(b)  Leaders do not have a full understanding of the checks which must be made on the suitability of staff and members of the proprietorial board before they work with children.  The single central record shows that some of the checks have been completed. For example, all staff have been checked to ensure that they do not have a criminal conviction which would stop them from working with children.  Not all checks are in place regarding a person’s right to work in the United Kingdom, their medical fitness, or for staff who have lived or worked abroad.  No checks have been made to see whether any leaders are prohibited from being

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Main inspection findings

involved in the management of an independent school.  School leaders have not undertaken training in staff recruitment.  The school does not plan to use supply teachers.  The school’s leaders have not ensured that standards are likely to be met in this part. Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools Paragraph 23(1)(b), 24(1)(a), 24(1)(b), 24(2), 26, 27, 27(a), 27(b)  The classrooms are well maintained. Equipment is stored safely. Windows can be secured adequately. There is a suitable amount of space to accommodate the proposed number of pupils.  The school has separate toilet and washing facilities, including for boys and girls over the age of eight years. The toilets can be locked from the inside.  There is a designated space for the medical examination and treatment of pupils. There is access to a washing facility in the room and a toilet nearby.  Acoustic and lighting conditions are appropriate throughout the inside of the building.

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Main inspection findings

 The lighting outside is adequate and well maintained. Paragraph 28(1), 28(1)(a), 28(1)(b), 28(1)(c), 28(1)(d), 28(2), 28(2)(a), 28(2)(b)  There is an adequate supply of hot and cold water. The temperature of the hot water does not pose a risk of scalding.  A suitable drinking water facility is located away from the toilets. It is available and accessible at all times. Paragraph 29(1), 29(1)(a), 29(1)(b)  There is suitable outdoor space for pupils to play. It is securely fenced and separate from the car park area. Pupils may benefit from a variety of different environments, including a grassed area, a small woodland and three ponds.  The area of grass outside is large enough for pupils to engage in physical education (PE) activities. Leaders also intend to use the facilities at a local leisure centre to deliver the PE curriculum. Paragraph 23(1), 23(1)(a), 23(1)(c), 24(1), 24(1)(c), 25  The temperature of some heaters in the building is too high. People could be hurt if

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Main inspection findings

they touched the metal casings.  The toilet provided for pupils with disabilities is not appropriate. Access to the toilet is limited due to the location of the wash basin.  There is no additional medical accommodation to cater for pupils with complex needs.  Leaders have not ensured that there is suitable changing accommodation and showers for pupils aged 11 years or over to use after PE lessons.  The paving which surrounds most of the school buildings is poorly maintained. Pupils are at risk of falling over on its slippery surface.  The rope walk in the woodland area is damaged. Pupils could fall from a height if they used it.  The school’s leaders have not ensured that standards are likely to be met in this part. Part 6. Provision of information Paragraph 32(1)(b), 32(1)(d), 32(1)(f), 32(1)(h), 32(1)(i), 32(1)(j), 32(2)(a), 32(2)(d), 32(3)(c), 32(3)(d), 32(3)(e), 32(3)(f), 32(3)(g)  Leaders have set out a curriculum policy, which is available to parents of prospective

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Main inspection findings

pupils.  A statement of the school’s ethos and aims is available on the school’s website and in its prospectus.  Information is available in relation to the management of pupils’ behaviour, including exclusions, anti-bullying, health and safety and first aid.  The proposed format for reporting to parents outlines pupils’ academic achievements in different subjects, their attitude to learning and their attendance.  Leaders understand their responsibilities with regard to providing information about children looked after and pupils with an EHC plan when requested.  The school’s website will allow leaders to share information about the academic performance of pupils in the future. They will also be able to use it to publish copies of any inspection reports. Paragraph 32(1), 32(1)(a), 32(1)(c), 32(2), 32(2)(b), 32(2)(b)(ii), 32(3), 32(3)(a), 32(3)(b)  Leaders have not ensured that the comprehensive details about the registered office

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Main inspection findings

of the proprietorial board are available to parents.  An up-to-date copy of the school’s safeguarding policy is not available on the school’s website.  The school does not have a policy outlining its admissions procedures.  There is no policy available relating to the provision for pupils who speak English as an additional language  The school’s leaders have not ensured that standards are likely to be met in this part. Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled Paragraph 33(a), 33(b), 33(c), 33(d), 33(e)  The school’s complaints policy provides the opportunity for a complainant to be considered on an informal basis and includes the provision for a complaint to be made in writing. Paragraph 33, 33(f), 33(g), 33(h), 33(i), 33(i)(i), 33(i)(ii), 33(j), 33(j)(i), 33(j)(ii), 33(k)  The policy does not make provision for a complaint to be heard before a panel when preceding stages have not resolved a concern.

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Main inspection findings

 The policy does not state that written records will be kept of the outcomes of any complaints and the resulting actions taken.  The school’s leaders have not ensured that standards are likely to be met in this part. Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools Paragraph 34(1), 34(1)(a), 34(1)(b), 34(1)(c)  Leaders do not have a thorough understanding of the requirements of the independent school standards. They are not yet demonstrating the skills and knowledge appropriate to their roles, so that all the independent school standards are likely to be met.  The proprietor has not ensured that school leaders have sufficient support and training, so they can be effective in their roles and lead the school with confidence. The process for holding school leaders to account has not been formalised.  Leaders are not knowledgeable enough about their safeguarding responsibilities. They have not established secure systems and procedures to safeguard the well-being of

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Main inspection findings

pupils.  Leaders have not considered well enough the learning needs of the pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) in their curriculum plans. They have not ensured that the curriculum is supported with the necessary resources. There is currently no programme of activities in place for pupils above the compulsory school age.  Leaders are not aware of their legal duty regarding the protected characteristics.  Leaders have improved the school premises. However, there is more to do to ensure that the accommodation is suitable for all pupils and safe.  The school’s leaders have not ensured that standards are likely to be met in this part. Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010  Leaders have formulated an accessibility plan. However, it does not reflect the provision in school. Some pupils with disabilities will not be able to access a toilet.  The school’s leaders have not ensured that the requirements of the Equality Act 2010

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Compliance with regulatory requirements

The school leaders have not ensured that 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, 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

Annual fees (day pupils) £62,400 to £82,400

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Proposed school details

Website www.valscommunity.co.uk/aspiration-house

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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 Not applicable 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 Not applicable

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Provider already operating

Total hours operating as a school per week Not applicable

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Provider already operating

Total hours of teaching provided per week Not applicable

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recommendation

Age range of pupils Not applicable 8–18 Number of pupils on the school roll Not applicable 10

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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 10

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of part-time pupils Not applicable 0

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities Not applicable Up to 10

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Of which, number of pupils with a statement of special educational needs or an education, health and care plan Not applicable Up to 10

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Of which, number of pupils paid for by a local authority with a statement of special educational needs or an education, health and care plan Not applicable 6

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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 part-time teaching staff Not applicable 10

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of staff in the welfare provision Not applicable 2

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Information about this proposed school

 The proprietor of the school is Aspiration House Limited. The school is part of a group of schools and children’s homes operated by VAL’s community.  The school is located in Freiston, Boston. It occupies premises previously used as a school.  The proposed school will provide full-time education for up to 10 pupils with SEND, aged between eight and 18 years. This is different from the information provided on the school’s application to the Department for Education. The original proposal was for a school for nine pupils with SEND, between the ages of five and 18 years.  It is likely that most pupils will have an EHC plan. Some of the pupils will be in the care of the local authority.

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Information about this inspection

 This was the proposed school’s first pre-registration inspection.  I met with the director of education, the headteacher and the principal.  I undertook a tour of the site, to check the premises against Part 5 of the independent school standards.  I scrutinised documentation, including curriculum plans, and a range of school policies and procedures.  I checked the school’s single central record.

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Inspection team

Rachel Tordoff, 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)(d) personal, social, health and economic education which-

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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)(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)(i) effective preparation of pupils for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of life in British society.

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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; – 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 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(b) ensures that principles are actively promoted which-

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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.

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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(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

 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 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)(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)(ii) the person’s medical fitness; – 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.

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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

 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-

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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.

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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)(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)(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(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.

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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-

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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.

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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)(c) where a school caters for pupils with complex needs, additional medical accommodation which caters for those needs.

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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 6. Provision of information

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

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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];

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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.

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Part 6. Provision of information

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

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Part 6. Provision of information

– 32(2)(b)(ii) where the proprietor is a body of persons, the address and telephone number of its registered or principal office.

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Part 6. Provision of information

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

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Part 6. Provision of information

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

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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.

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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(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;

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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;

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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;

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

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

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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.

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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 – 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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