Birmingham International Academy

School pre-registration inspection report

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Birmingham International Academy 69 Steward Street, Birmingham B18 7AF

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Main inspection findings

Part 1. Quality of education provided Paragraphs 2(1), 2(1)(a), 2(1)(b)(ii), 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), 3(b), 3(g), 3(h), 3(i), 3(j) and 4  The proprietor has set out the school’s intended vision in a curriculum plan and various subject schemes of work. Pupils are likely to be able to access a suitably broad range of subjects. The proposed curriculum contains learning experiences in linguistic, mathematical, scientific, technological, human and social, physical, aesthetic and creative education.  The proposed curriculum is likely to enable pupils to develop their speaking and listening, and literacy and numeracy skills. The proprietor is keen for pupils to be well equipped for further education, training and employment.  The school’s personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) education plan provides opportunities for sex education, learning about relationships, and preparation for real

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Main inspection findings

life, such as handling money and making career choices.  Careers education is proposed to start in Year 7. The proprietor has devised a suitable plan to ensure that pupils receive careers advice from a range of different sources and providers.  The proprietor has a secure knowledge of the Equality Act 2010. As a result, the proposed curriculum is planned to ensure that pupils learn about all groups who are protected by the act.  The school’s plans and schemes of work do not undermine the fundamental British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.  The proprietor has developed an assessment framework. This includes a baseline assessment on entry to the school, target setting procedures and other formative and summative assessments throughout the year. It makes provision for these to be reported to parents.

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Main inspection findings

 The proprietor has ensured that these standards are likely be met. Paragraphs 2(1)(b), 2(1)(b)(i), 2(2)(g) and 2(2)(h)  The written plans and schemes of work are detailed. However, there is a lack of cohesion and coherence between the plans and schemes of work. Many have simply been taken from other schools and are not relevant to the proposed school. For example, the history scheme plans for a local history study to be based on Gressenhall in Norfolk. Similarly, the geography scheme includes a study of a local nature reserve in Knettishall Heath, Suffolk. The proposed school is to be situated in central Birmingham.  Other schemes include references to out-of-date exam and accreditation schemes. For example, in science, accreditation is planned over a two-year period beginning in 2016. The physical education (PE) scheme suggests that teachers can help pupils prepare for accreditation in 2015–16.  Plans do not fully reflect the potential ages, aptitudes and needs of pupils who will

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Main inspection findings

possibly attend the school. It is not always made clear how the curriculum will be adapted to support pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).  While some plans include details of programmes for pupils post-16, these do not reflect the potential needs or aptitudes of these pupils.  The proprietor has not ensured that these standards are likely to be met. Paragraphs 3(a), 3(c), 3(d), 3(e) and 3(f)  As a result of the shortcomings in the school’s current plans for the curriculum, it is not likely that pupils will be supported to acquire new knowledge and make good progress according to their ability.  There is very little information or planning for how teaching is going to be managed in the school. There are no teachers currently appointed to the proposed school, and the recruitment process is yet to be started. There are no well-thought-out plans about how the proprietor will ensure that staff have the appropriate skills, knowledge and

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Main inspection findings

understanding to deliver the breadth of curriculum outlined in the curriculum plan.  It is not clear how teaching will be monitored and supported by senior leaders. The proprietor recognises that additional professional development is a key aspect of the provision, but no clear process is in place to ensure that lessons are well planned and utilise effective teaching methods.  The proprietor has not yet decided how teaching areas will be organised or resourced.  The proprietor has not ensured that these standards are likely to be met. Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils Paragraphs 5, 5(a). 5(b), 5(b)(i), 5(b)(ii), 5(b)(iii), 5(b)(iv), 5(b)(v), 5(b)(vi), 5(b)(vii), 5(c), 5(d), 5(d)(i), 5(d)(ii) and 5(d)(iii)  The proprietor has a clear vision and a deep commitment to supporting pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. This is threaded through many

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Main inspection findings

policies and schemes of work.  The equalities policy explains how pupils are likely to be supported to develop respect for other people, cultures and traditions. The proprietor ensures that due regard is paid to the protected characteristics set out in the Equality Act 2010 by including these in policy expectations.  Although there are weaknesses in curriculum planning, there is clear evidence that the proprietor intends to actively promote the broad themes of British values, the rule of law, respect for public institutions, appreciation of other cultures and democracy.  The proprietor has ensured that these standards are likely to be met. Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils Paragraphs 7, 7(a) and 7(b)  The proprietor has made arrangements to safeguard and promote the welfare of pupils through a written safeguarding policy. The policy provides information to ensure that concerns that staff have about a pupil are appropriately reported, recorded and

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Main inspection findings

acted on. However, it does not fully take account of the guidance issued by the Secretary of State. For example, it refers to Keeping Children Safe in Education 2018 but contains no references to ‘sexting’ or ‘county lines’.  The proprietor has not ensured that these standards are likely to be met. Paragraphs 9(a), 9(b), 9(c) and 10  The proprietor has created various policies to support behaviour management, including policies on behaviour and for exclusions.  The behaviour policy sets out a clear framework for managing and promoting good behaviour. It details the rewards and sanctions to be employed in the proposed school. It suggests that a behaviour record book will be used to record incidents and how they are dealt with by staff.  The school has a suitable anti-bullying strategy which includes support for staff on how to deal with any bullying incident.  The proprietor has a wealth of experience in managing behaviour. She has a strong

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Main inspection findings

vision for how staff are likely to support pupils to take responsibility for their own behaviour.  The proprietor has ensured that these standards are likely to be met. Paragraphs 11, 12, 13, 14, 16(a) and 16(b)  The proprietor has a draft health and safety policy in place which is comprehensive and covers the elements expected in such a policy. However, it is not bespoke to this school. The policy describes how reports will be prepared for the chief executive of the education authority and the range of responsibilities that governors will have. There is no requirement for an independent school to report to the chief executive of the education authority, and this school is not planning on having a governing board on opening.  Similarly, the first aid policy is not written for this school. It refers to different schools. Birmingham International Academy has no connections with these organisations. The

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Main inspection findings

policy goes on to explain how medicines will be administered to the pupils who are in care at the home. The proprietor proposes to register an independent day school and not a care home offering residential provision.  Although the proprietor has contacted the relevant fire authority, no fire risk assessments have been completed or any thought given as to how the school would be evacuated in the event of a fire. These risk assessments are impossible to complete given that the proprietor is yet to identify and secure specific premises for the proposed school. The premises are not yet fully compliant with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.  There is no clarity about how many classes, how many teachers and how many learning support assistants will be required when the proposed school first opens and, over time, as the school grows. It is not yet clear how the proprietor will ensure that they have adequate supervision for the unconfirmed numbers of pupils on site when

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Main inspection findings

the school opens.  No risk assessments have been undertaken regarding the proposed school site or curriculum activities. While the proprietor demonstrates an understanding of how to carry out risk assessments and the control measures required in order to limit risk, there is no risk assessment policy for the school. A premises management policy was shared as part of the inspection, but it does not relate to the proposed school or the proposed site.  The proprietor has not ensured that these standards are likely to be met. Paragraph 15  The proprietor has ensured that there are policies for admissions and attendance. These ensure compliance with the Pupil Registrations Regulations.  The proprietor has ensured that this standard is likely to be met. Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors Paragraphs 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), 19(2)(a), 19(2)(a)(i), 19(2)(a)(i)(aa)

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Main inspection findings

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), 20(6), 20(6)(a), 20(6)(a)(i), 20(6)(a)(ii), 20(6)(b), 20(6)(b)(ii), 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(5), 21(5), 21(5)(a), 21(5)(a)(i), 21(5)(a)(ii), 21(5)(b), 21(5)(c), 21(6), 21(7), 21(7)(a) and 21(7)(b)  The recruitment of staff has not yet begun. However, the proprietor has drawn up a comprehensive safer recruitment and selection policy. This sets out clearly the process that will be followed when recruiting staff.  The proprietor has undertaken safer recruitment training. She understands that all the required checks have to be undertaken before any member of staff begins work at the school.  A recruitment and vetting check policy is in place. This details how all the required

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Main inspection findings

checks will be recorded in the school’s single central record.  The proprietor has already created a format for the school’s single central record to evidence the appropriate checks on the suitability of staff and the proprietor. The record is held electronically. It includes checks such as: identity checks; right to work in the United Kingdom and further checks on people living or having lived outside the United Kingdom; medical fitness; and a section 128 check. It also makes provision for recording the outcomes of two reference checks.  The school does not yet know if it is going to be using agency supply staff. However, the proprietor understands the required checks that need to be completed before any person undertakes any supply work.  The proprietor has 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), 24(1)(a), 24(1)(b), 24(1)(c),

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Main inspection findings

24(2), 25, 28(1), 28(1)(a), 28(1)(b), 28(1)(c), 28(1)(d), 28(2), 28(2)(a), 28(2)(b), 29(1), 29(1)(a) and 29(1)(b)  There are no agreed premises for the school. An office block in central Birmingham has been identified as the location for the proposed school. Parts of the building are in the process of being renovated. However, it is not clear where the school will be situated within the building.  Initially, the school was to be located on the fourth floor of this building. While this was being renovated, the proprietor proposed to use the third floor. However, half an hour before the inspection site visit an alternative space was identified. The proprietor suggested that this was a more appropriate space to house the school, as it could have its own entrance.  There are no formal plans in place for the conversion of this space. While showing the inspector round, the proprietor made suggestions on how the room could be divided

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Main inspection findings

to create classrooms, a space for the short-term care of sick pupils and toilet facilities for pupils’ sole use. This has not been thought through carefully enough, and the proposed number of pupils and their specific needs have not been given due consideration.  No lease agreement is in place with the owners of the building for a space to house the school. There is a lack of clarity and coherence in leaders’ planning for the school premises.  The proprietor has not ensured that these standards are likely to be met. Paragraphs 26, 27(a) and 27(b)  The proposed school space is located next to an underground car park. It is a dark space, having a single window at one end. Little consideration has been given to internal and external lighting.  Fire escape routes for this space have not been considered. Pupils may be at risk if they have to exit through the underground car park.  The space is currently one large room with bare breeze block and brick walls. It has a

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Main inspection findings

concrete floor. No specific plans are in place to ensure that the acoustic conditions and sound insulation are suitable for educational activities.  The proprietor has not ensured that these standards are likely to be met. Paragraphs 29(1), 29(1)(a) and 29(1)(b)  There is no outdoor space to allow pupils to play outside. The proprietor proposes to make use of a local park for breaktimes. Initial enquiries have been made with a local gym for physical education. This is an indoor space. Again, no firm plans are in place for the provision of a suitable outdoor space for pupils to play outside or to engage in physical education.  The proprietor has not ensured that these standards are likely to be met. Part 6. Provision of information Paragraphs 32(1)(a), 32(1)(b), 32(1)(d), 32(1)(f), 32(1)(g), 32(1)(i), 32(1)(j), 32(2)(a), 32(2)(b)(i), 32(2)(d), 32(3)(a), 32(3)(b), 32(3)(c) and 32(3)(g)  The school does not have a website, but a range of information is available in paper

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Main inspection findings

form on request. The proprietor fully understands her responsibility to provide information to parents and external bodies.  The proprietor has set out a curriculum policy that is available to parents. There is a clear ethos and vision statement to support this. Relevant contact details for the school and the proprietor are available.  A proforma is in place to provide parents with an annual written report of pupils’ progress and attainment.  Admission and attendance registers are likely to be fit for purpose.  Policies on the management of behaviour and how exclusions are handled are in place.  Brief details explain the educational and welfare provision for pupils with English as an additional language.  Information is provided to support the annual review of a pupils’ education, health and care (EHC) plan.  The proprietor has ensured that these standards are likely to be met. Paragraphs 32(1)(c), 32(1)(h), 32(3)(d), 32(3)(e) and 32(3)(f)

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Main inspection findings

 A safeguarding policy is available on request, but it does not have regard to guidance issued by the Secretary of State.  There is currently no proposed proforma for the annual account of income received and expenditure incurred by the school in respect of any pupil wholly or partly funded by the local authority.  The local offer document is not bespoke to this school. It talks about working with Staffordshire Police and the Acorn Directors taking decisions in this respect. The school is situated in Birmingham, and there are no directors. The document mentions pupils being housed in the ‘Coach House’ and fire assembly points being on the top lawn and playing area. There is no ground floor ‘Coach House’ connected to the school, and the proposed location does not have a lawn or playing areas.  The health and safety and first aid policies are not bespoke to this school.  There are currently no means for sharing the school’s future academic performance.

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Main inspection findings

 The complaints policy does not yet fully meet the requirements of the independent school standards and does not meet the provision of information standard.  The proprietor has not 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), 33(i)(i), 33(i)(ii), 33(j), 33(j)(i), 33(j)(ii) and 33(k)  The proprietor has established a complaints policy. The policy would meet the majority of standards, but it is not bespoke to this school. It references a panel of governors who would hear the complaint, but this school does not propose to have a board of governors.  The proprietor suggested that the complaint could also be passed to the local authority for investigation. As an independent school, this would not be the appropriate route.  The policy does not make clear that a parent may attend the panel hearing and be

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Main inspection findings

accompanied if they wish.  The proprietor has 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), 34(1)(c)  The proprietor does not have a thorough understanding of the independent school standards. Consequently, there are several standards that are not likely to be met.  Too many policies are not bespoke or appropriate to the proposed new school. Many appear to have been taken from other schools. There is a lack of preparation and effort to prepare policies that are relevant to the proposed new school.  Premises for the school have yet to be secured. There have been no formal recruitment processes put in place to advertise for leaders, teaching and support staff. Plans for many curriculum areas are not bespoke to the school. There is a lack of coherent and systematic planning by the proprietor to ensure that the school is ready

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Main inspection findings

to open.  Given the shortcomings in the safeguarding policy, health and safety and first aid policies the proprietor is not likely at this stage to ensure that the well-being of pupils is fully promoted.  The proprietor has clear intentions and a comprehensive vision for the school. She wants to make a positive difference to pupils’ lives and raise their aspirations for future learning and employment. However, she has not put in place appropriate and bespoke policies and procedures to ensure that the independent school standards are likely to be met.  The proprietor has not ensured that these standards are likely to be met. Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010  The proprietor has an accessibility policy but has not yet fully considered or formulated an accessibility strategy and plan pertinent to this particular school setting.  The accessibility policy is out of date, referring to Keeping Children Safe in Education

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Main inspection findings

2016.  The proprietor has not ensured that the requirements of Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010 are likely to be met.

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Compliance with regulatory requirements

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

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Proposed school details

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

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Proposed school details

Annual fees (day pupils) £16,500–£31,500

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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 N/A 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 N/A

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Provider already operating

Total hours operating as a school per week N/A

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Provider already operating

Total hours of teaching provided per week N/A

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n

Age range of pupils N/A 10–18 0 Number of pupils on the school roll N/A 50 0

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n

Reason for inspector’s recommendations  The school is unlikely to meet a significant number of the independent school standards. Therefore, the inspector’s recommendation is that the proposed school does not currently provide education for any pupils.  At the time of the inspection, plans for the location of the proposed school were still being drawn up. There are no agreed premises for the school.

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Gender of pupils N/A Mixed Number of full-time pupils of compulsory school age N/A 50

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of part-time pupils N/A Not yet determined

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School’s current position School’s proposal

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

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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 N/A Not yet determined

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School’s current position School’s proposal

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

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of full-time equivalent teaching staff N/A 6

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of part-time teaching staff N/A 8

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of staff in the welfare provision N/A 14

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Information about this proposed school

 The proposed school will occupy part of a serviced building let to multiple tenants in central Birmingham. It is not yet certain in which part of the building the school will be located.  The proprietor proposes to provide for some pupils who have an EHC plan. These pupils would have a range of needs, including cognitive, specific and moderate learning difficulties, social, emotional and mental health needs, communication and interaction needs, speech, language and communication needs and autism spectrum disorder.  The proprietor is also acting as headteacher until a permanent headteacher is appointed.  There are currently no staff appointed to the school, and the recruitment process has yet to start.  The school does not intend to make use of any off-site alternative provision.

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Information about this inspection

 This inspection was commissioned by the Department for Education during the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic of 2020. Some of the inspection was conducted remotely. This was due to the fact that no premises have yet been secured for the school and a meeting space with the proprietor was only available for a limited period of time. Social distancing requirements also meant that limited time was spent with the proprietor.  This is the school’s first pre-registration inspection.  During the inspection, the inspector scrutinised a wide range of documentation, including that associated with the curriculum, behaviour and safeguarding. She visited the proposed site of the school and toured two areas to evaluate the building against the independent school standards. Discussions were held with the proprietor.  The inspector took account of arrangements for pupils’ welfare and safeguarding. The inspection work included reviews of the safeguarding policy, the school’s checks on

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Information about this inspection

the suitability of staff, the health and safety policy, and fire risk assessment.

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Inspection team

Nicola Harwood, 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– – 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 – 2(1)(b) the written policy, plans and schemes of work– – 2(1)(b)(i) take into account the ages, aptitudes and needs of all pupils, including those pupils with an EHC plan; and – 2(2)(g) where the school has pupils above compulsory school age, a programme of activities which is appropriate to their needs; – 2(2)(h) that all pupils have the opportunity to learn and make progress.  3 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that the teaching at the school– – 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

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

the subjects taught; – 3(c) involves well-planned lessons and effective teaching methods, activities and management of class time; – 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; – 3(e) demonstrates good knowledge and understanding of the subject matter being taught; – 3(f) utilises effectively classroom resources of a good quality, quantity and range; – 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 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils

 7 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that– – 7(a) arrangements are made to safeguard and promote the welfare of pupils at the school; and – 7(b) such arrangements have regard to any guidance issued by the Secretary of State.  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.  12 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures compliance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005[12].  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.  14 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that pupils are properly supervised through the appropriate deployment of school staff.

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Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils

 16 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that– – 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 – 16(b) appropriate action is taken to reduce risks that are identified.

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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– – 23(1)(a) suitable toilet and washing facilities are provided for the sole use of pupils; – 23(1)(b) separate toilet facilities for boys and girls aged 8 years or over are provided except where the toilet facility is provided in a room that can be secured from the inside and that is intended for use by one pupil at a time; and – 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.  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– – 24(1)(a) accommodation for the medical examination and treatment of pupils; – 24(1)(b) accommodation for the short-term care of sick and injured pupils, which

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Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

includes a washing facility and is near to a toilet facility; and – 24(1)(c) where a school caters for pupils with complex needs, additional medical accommodation which caters for those needs.  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).  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.  26 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that the acoustic conditions and sound insulation of each room or other space are suitable, having regard to the nature of the activities which normally take place therein.

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Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

 27 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that– – 27(a) the lighting in each room or other internal space is suitable, having regard to the nature of the activities which normally take place therein; and – 27(b) external lighting is provided in order to ensure that people can safely enter and leave the school premises.  28(1) The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that– – 28(1)(a) suitable drinking water facilities are provided; – 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; – 28(1)(c) cold water supplies that are suitable for drinking are clearly marked as such; and – 28(1)(d) the temperature of hot water at the point of use does not pose a scalding risk to users.  28(2) The facilities provided under sub-paragraph (1)(a) will be suitable only if– – 28(2)(a) they are readily accessible at all times when the premises are in use; and

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Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

– 28(2)(b) they are in a separate area from the toilet facilities.  29(1) The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that suitable outdoor space is provided in order to enable– – 29(1)(a) physical education to be provided to pupils in accordance with the school curriculum; and – 29(1)(b) pupils to play outside.

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

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Part 6. Provision of information

1 2006 c.21. Section 7 was substituted by section 1 of the 2011 Act and section 7A was inserted by section 87 of the Children and Families Act 2014 (c.6). – 32(3)(d) particulars of arrangements for meeting the standards contained in paragraphs 9, 10, 11 and 13; – 32(3)(e) particulars of the school’s academic performance during the preceding school year, including the results of any public examinations; – 32(3)(f) details of the complaints procedure referred to in paragraph 33, and the number of complaints registered under the formal procedure during the preceding school year.

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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– – 33(a) is in writing; – 33(b) is made available to parents of pupils; – 33(c) sets out clear time scales for the management of a complaint; – 33(d) allows for a complaint to be made and considered initially on an informal basis; – 33 (e) where the parent is not satisfied with the response to the complaint made in accordance with sub-paragraph (d), establishes a formal procedure for the complaint to be made in writing; – 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

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Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled

who were not directly involved in the matters detailed in the complaint; – 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; – 33(h) allows for a parent to attend and be accompanied at a panel hearing if they wish; – 33(i) provides for the panel to make findings and recommendations and stipulates that a copy of those findings and recommendations is– – 33(i)(i) provided to the complainant and, where relevant, the person complained about; and – 33 (i)(ii) available for inspection on the school premises by the proprietor and the head teacher; – 33(j) provides for a written record to be kept of all complaints that are made in accordance with sub-paragraph (e) and– – 33(j)(i) whether they are resolved following a formal procedure, or proceed to a panel hearing; and – 33(j)(ii) action taken by the school as a result of those complaints (regardless of

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