Carleton School

School pre-registration inspection report

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Carleton House School C/O A Wilderness Way Ltd, Manor House, Brisco Street, Carlisle, Cumbria CA4 0QS

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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)(c), 2(2)(d), 2(2)(d)(i), 2(2)(d)(ii), 2(2)(e), 2(2)(e)(i), 2(2)(e)(ii), 2(2)(e)(iii), 2(2)(h) and 2(2)(i)  The proprietor body has planned the school’s curriculum to ensure it supports the school’s aims. Subjects covered in the curriculum include linguistic, mathematical, scientific, technological, human and social, aesthetic and creative education, and physical education (PE). The school’s curriculum promotes the use of outdoor and adventurous activities as a means of accessing learning.  The content of the curriculum’s associated schemes of work details the knowledge and skills intended to be taught. They are suitably ambitious and take account of the anticipated needs of pupils. Pupils at key stage 4 will be able to continue their studies towards attaining a range of qualifications. These include outdoor education awards,

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Main inspection findings

Award Scheme Development and Accreditation Network awards and, where appropriate, GCSEs.  The curriculum includes provision for secondary-aged pupils to receive impartial advice and guidance about careers to enable them to make informed choices. This will be done in a variety of ways, including advice and guidance from external, impartial advisers and visits to careers fairs. Paragraphs 3, 3(a), 3(b), 3(c), 3(d), 3(e), 3(f), 3(g), 3(h), 3(i), 3(j), 4  The school’s schemes of work include detailed planning of sequences of activities that systematically develop pupils’ knowledge and skills. Leaders intend that a pupil will be provided with an individual learning plan. This plan will identify gaps in knowledge and illustrate how the curriculum has been amended to help close those gaps.  The school’s written assessment policy is integrated into the curriculum policy. It is detailed and identifies how assessments will be conducted. Leaders have clear plans

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Main inspection findings

about how a pupil’s needs will be assessed and how the information arising from assessment will be used to inform teaching. The use of assessment in the school is likely to be purposeful and effective.  The proprietor company has ensured that there are suitable resources to support learning. This includes appropriate technology and connectivity to allow a pupil to access online learning. Suitable equipment to aid teaching in subjects such as mathematics, science and geography is in place and ready for pupils to use. Additionally, a collection of fiction and non-fiction books will provide pupils with access to a range of appropriate reading materials to suit their age and ability. Leaders intend to purchase additional resources to meet a pupil’s specific needs and interests as appropriate.  The proprietor company has appointed an experienced and suitably qualified headteacher to lead the school. In addition, leaders have in place a well-considered

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Main inspection findings

recruitment process to appoint the initial staff to the school. Leaders intend to make use of the expertise of other staff working within the company to complement the knowledge of staff appointed to Carleton House. The proprietor company has in place an appropriate induction programme for all new staff. This will help to ensure pupils are taught well and helped to make effective academic and social progress.  The standards relating to the quality of education are likely to be met. Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils Paragraph 5, 5(a), 5(b), 5(b)(i), 5(b)(ii), 5(b)(iii), 5(b)(iv), 5(b)(v), 5(b)(vi), 5(b)(vii), 5(c), 5(d), 5(d)(i), 5(d)(ii) and 5(d)(iii)  Curriculum plans show that the school will actively promote pupils’ self-worth and confidence. Additionally, the planned curriculum will promote pupils’ knowledge and understanding of fundamental values, including the rule of law and the understanding

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Main inspection findings

of democracy.  The school’s planned curriculum will actively promote pupils’ mutual respect and tolerance of others. This covers those groups identified as having protected characteristics in the Equality Act 2010, including those relating to gender, sexuality and different faiths and beliefs.  Schemes of work are in place for personal, social, health and economic education that encompass spiritual, moral, social and cultural education. These include schemes of work to promote pupils’ understanding of relationships and sex education, appropriate to pupils’ ages, experiences and sensitively. The modules of work include well-chosen topics to promote pupils’ social skills and cultural understanding. They provide opportunities for pupils in key stage 4, if appropriate, to gain accredited awards.  The proprietor company has appropriate procedures in place to inhibit the promotion of extremist or partisan materials and views. Clear expectations are placed upon staff

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Main inspection findings

to maintain impartial political views with pupils as part of their conditions of employment. As part of their induction to the school, all staff will be trained in strategies to identify and act effectively upon any concerns relating to radicalisation or extremism.  The standards relating to pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development are likely to be met. Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils Paragraph 7, 7(a), 7(b)  The school’s written safeguarding policy and procedures show regard for the current guidance from the Secretary of State. The school does not have a website, but the policy will be available on request.  The proprietor company intends for all staff working in the school to have completed appropriate safeguarding training and to receive frequent updates to help protect the pupils at the school. Leaders have an effective system in place to record all staff training.  Leaders have ensured that the school has an appropriately filtered internet connection

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Main inspection findings

in place. Leaders have well-considered systems to ensure pupils’ use of the internet is appropriately monitored. Paragraph 9, 9(a), 9(b), 9(c)  The school’s written behaviour policy is fit for purpose. It clearly explains leaders’ expectations of staff and pupils. It contains detailed information about the strategies and rewards that staff can use to promote effective behaviour. It also contains information about the sanctions that may be used when behaviour falls below that which is expected. The behaviour policy takes account of current legislation, including that relating to exclusion.  Leaders have established a suitable system to record any incidents of poor behaviour. The system will allow leaders to record any incident in detail and supports the leaders’ action to evaluate any emerging trends in behaviour. Paragraph 10  The school’s anti-bullying policy is detailed and fit for purpose. It identifies the

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Main inspection findings

different types of bullying that the pupils encounter. It also contains appropriate strategies that are to be implemented to help prevent bullying. Paragraphs 11, 13, 14, 15  The proprietor company has an appropriate health and safety policy in place to ensure compliance with relevant laws. For example, systems to ensure frequent checks on the operation of the fire alarm and firefighting equipment are in place. Leaders have established appropriate logs of safety checks to be used, including those for legionella. Checks on the fixed electrical installation and portable appliances will be carried out by a competent and qualified person and will be up to date.  The proprietor company has an appropriate first-aid policy in place. All staff who are appointed to the school will be expected to complete a two-day first-aid qualification which will cover first-aid techniques for outdoor education situations. Leaders have

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Main inspection findings

ensured that appropriate first-aid resources are available in the school.  Leaders have established effective record-keeping systems to record and evaluate any incidents relating to health and safety, or accidents.  Planned staff numbers are sufficient to ensure the appropriate supervision of the pupils at all times when the school is operating. Additional, qualified trainers will provide expert tuition in outdoor activities.  Leaders have established an admission record book and attendance register for the school that complies with current legislation. Paragraph 12  Leaders have taken actions to ensure that the school complies with all of the relevant fire safety regulations. Planned annual maintenance of firefighting equipment, such as fire extinguishers and the fire alarm, will be completed to help ensure that they are in an operational condition.  A fire risk assessment has been completed by an appropriately qualified person. All

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Main inspection findings

remedial work identified in the risk assessment has been completed. Paragraph 16(a), 16(b)  The proprietor company’s written risk assessment policy is well considered and fit for purpose. Leaders provided detailed risk assessments that demonstrate their secure understanding of the management of risk. Risk assessments cover a wide range of activities including those in the outdoors. They include the proposed use of off-site sports and activity centres for the provision of PE, including the safe use of changing and shower facilities.  The standards relating to the welfare, health and safety of pupil are likely to be met. Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors Paragraphs 18(1), 18(2), 18(2)(b), 20(1), 20(2), 20(3), 20(3)(a), 20(3)(a)(i), 20(3)(a)(ii), 20(5), 20(5)(a), 20(5)(a)(i), 20(5)(a)(ii), 20(5)(b), 20(5)(b)(i), 20(5)(b)(ii), 20(5)(b)(iii), 20(6), 20(6)(a), 20(6)(a)(i), 20(6)(a)(ii), 20(6)(b), 20(6)(b)(i), 20(6)(b)(ii),

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Main inspection findings

20(6)(b)(iii), 20(6)(c)  The proprietor company has carried out the required checks to ensure that persons who hold leadership roles in the school have not been prohibited from the leadership and management of a school under section 128 of the 2008 Act. These checks have been completed on the headteacher, directors and staff with leadership and management responsibilities within the proprietor company. Paragraphs 17, 18(1), 18(2), 18(2)(a), 18(2)(c), 18(2)(c)(i), 18(2)(c)(ii), 18(2)(c)(iii), 18(2)(c)(iv), 18(2)(d), 18(2)(e), 18(3)  The proprietor company demonstrates a clear intention to ensure pupils’ safety and well-being. Systems are in place to ensure that all the necessary checks will be undertaken on the suitability of staff to work with pupils. Appropriate criminal record and prohibition from teaching checks, identity checks, qualification and health checks have been completed on the headteacher already appointed to work in the school.

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Main inspection findings

Leaders are aware of the necessity to complete pre-employment checks before any newly appointed staff begin working at the school.  The proprietor company has appropriate procedures in place to recruit any additional staff to work in the school in the future. These procedures adhere to the most up-to- date guidance regarding the safer recruitment of staff.  Leaders and company employees responsible for recruitment demonstrate an awareness of the appropriate checks that need to be made for any staff who have lived or worked abroad. Paragraph 19(2),19(2)(a)(i), 19(2)(a)(i)(aa), 19(2)(a)(i)(bb), 19(2)(a)(i)(cc), 19(2)(a)(ii), 19(2)(b), 19(2)(c), 19(2)(d)(i), 19(2)(d)(ii), 19(3), 19(4)  The proprietor company does not intend to use any external agency or supply staff in the school. However, leaders demonstrate a secure knowledge of the suitable checks that should be completed on any such supply or contracted staff. A system to record

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Main inspection findings

these checks, if completed, is in place. Paragraph 21(1), 21(2), 21(3), 21(3)(a), 21(3)(a)(i), 21(3)(a)(ii), 21(3)(a)(iii), 21(3)(a)(iv), 21(3)(a)(v), 21(3)(a)(vi), 21(3)(a)(vii), 21(3)(a)(viii), 21(3)(b), 21(4), 21(5), 21(5)(a), 21(5)(a)(i), 21(5)(a)(ii), 21(5)(b), 21(5)(c), 21(6), 21(7), 21(7)(a), 21(7)(b)  The school’s single central record of the requisite checks that have been carried out on members of staff contains all the required information. It is held centrally by the proprietor company and leaders on the school site have access to it.  The standards relating to the suitability of staff, supply staff and proprietors 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), 25  The rooms used by the school, including the outdoor learning pod and the external recreational space, are well maintained and clean. They create an inviting place in

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Main inspection findings

which pupils can learn.  Suitable toilet facilities are provided for the sole use of pupils. Toilets are equipped with appropriate locks and are accessible to the pupil at all times. There is sufficient room in the toilet and shower area for pupils to change safely for PE activities. This shower facility is well equipped and clean. Paragraph 24(1), 24(1)(a), 24(1)(c)  The school has a suitable room designated for the provision of medical care. This room is also an office. It is equipped with a couch and portable washing facilities and is close to a toilet. It provides suitable facilities for medical examinations or short-term care of sick or injured pupils. Leaders intend to enhance the provision of the medical facilities by remodelling space adjacent to the medical room to include permanent washing and toilet facilities. However, the impact of COVID-19 (coronavirus) has delayed this work from being completed.

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Main inspection findings

Paragraphs 26 and 27, 27(a), 27(b)  The acoustic conditions and lighting within the designated classrooms are suited to the activities that will take place within them.  External lighting is sufficient to allow safe entry and exit to the school site. Paragraph 28(1), 28(1)(a), 28(1)(b), 28(1)(c), 28(1)(d), 28(2), 28(2)(a), 28(2)(b)  Pupils will always have access to fresh drinking water from an appropriately labelled tap located within the kitchen area.  Suitable washing facilities are available in the toilets. The water flowing through the sink taps and the shower is at a temperature that does not pose a scalding risk to the pupils. Paragraph 29(1), 29(1)(a), 29(1)(b)  The pupils will have access to a large garden and patio area to enable them to play and socialise. This area is of suitable size for the number of pupils and the range of ages proposed to be on the school roll. The garden contains a large area of lawn and

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Main inspection findings

flower beds. The garden also contains a small pond that can be used for recreation and scientific study. The pond has appropriate fencing in place to ensure pupils are kept safe.  The standards relating to premises and accommodation are likely to be met. Part 6. Provision of information Paragraph 32(1), 32(1)(a), 32(1)(b), 32(1)(c), 32(1)(d), 32(1)(f), (32(1)(h), 32(1)(i), 32(1)(j), 32(2), 32(2)(a), 32(2)(b)(i), 32(2)(c), 32(2)(d), 32(3), 32(3)(a), 32(3)(b), 32(3)(c), 32(3)(d), 32(3)(e), 32(3)(f)  The school does not have a website. Leaders have ensured that the information for parents, carers and other agencies detailed in the independent school standards (ISS) is available on request.  Leaders have ensured that copies of all of the school’s polices, including the safeguarding policy, are available to prospective parents, as well as any placing local authority, on request.  Leaders have ensured that appropriate procedures are in place to report on pupils’

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Main inspection findings

progress and attainment to parents, as well as to local authorities who place pupils in the school. Leaders also demonstrate a secure understanding of their duty to provide appropriate information to support the annual review of a pupil’s education, health and care plan (EHCP).  Leaders demonstrate a clear understanding of the obligation and duty to report on the income and expenditure of funds for pupils placed in the school by a local authority. They have appropriate templates ready to use to complete this requirement.  The standards relating to the provision of information are likely to be met. Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled Paragraph 33, 33(a), 33(b), 33(c), 33(d), 33(e), 33(f), 33(g), 33(h), 33(i), 33(i)(i), 33(i)(ii), 33(j), 33(j)(i), 33(j)(ii), 33(k)  The school’s detailed complaints procedures fully comply with all the requirements set out in the ISS. The procedures are available for parents or others on request. They set

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Main inspection findings

out clearly the steps and timescales for each stage of leaders’ actions. The procedures outline the rights of appeal if a complainant is dissatisfied with the outcome of a complaint. They also make clear that the panel who hears a complaint will include someone who is independent of the management and leadership of the school.  The implementation of these procedures will ensure any complaint is dealt with in a timely manner and the outcome communicated appropriately.  The standards relating to the handling of complaints 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 company and leaders have taken appropriate actions to ensure that all the independent school standards are likely to be met. Leaders demonstrate a secure understanding of the ISS. They have ensured that school policies reflect their school and pay due regard to appropriate national legislation.

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Main inspection findings

 Leaders have drawn on their experience in working with pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities in educational and social care environments. They demonstrate a secure understanding of the anticipated needs of those pupils expected to attend the school.  Leaders demonstrate a strong commitment to ensuring the health and safety of pupils attending the school. They have ensured that all health and safety standards are likely to be met. Buildings are maintained to a high standard and systems are in place to ensure that all health and safety checks are carried out appropriately.  The standards relating to the leadership and management of the school are likely to be met. Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010  The school has in place an appropriate accessibility plan. Consequently, the requirements under schedule 10 of the Equality Act are likely to be met.

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Compliance with regulatory requirements

The school is likely to meet the requirements of the schedule to the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014 (‘the independent school standards’) and associated requirements.

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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) £67,600 – £78,000

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Proposed school details

Date of previous standard inspection Not previously inspected

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recommendation

Age range of pupils Not applicable 11 to 16 11 to 16 Number of pupils on the school roll Not applicable 1 1

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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 1 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 1

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Of which, number of pupils with an education, health and care plan Not applicable 1

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Of which, number of pupils paid for by a local authority with an education, health and care plan Not applicable 1

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of full-time equivalent teaching staff 1 2

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of part-time teaching staff Not applicable 0

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of staff in the welfare provision Not applicable 1

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Information about this proposed school

 Carleton House School is proposed to be established in a rural location in Cumbria. It shares its site with a children’s home run by the proprietor company.  The proprietor company intends for the school to cater for highly vulnerable pupils between the age of 11 and 16 years old. It is expected that all pupils who attend the school will have an EHCP. The placements at the school will be for a maximum of 17 weeks. The aim is to reintroduce the pupils to education and begin the process of reintegrating them into mainstream provision.  The school will support pupils who have cognitive difficulties, behavioural and social needs, emotional and mental health needs and/or communication and interaction needs.  The proprietor company does not intend to use any alternative providers.

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Information about this inspection

 This inspection was commissioned by the Department for Education to determine if the school is likely to meet the independent school standards prior to opening as a registered school.  This was the first pre-registration inspection of Carleton House School.  During the inspection, meetings were held with the headteacher and the proprietor body’s chief operating officer and managing director. Online meetings were also held with the school’s assistant headteacher and officers of the proprietor body.  The inspector checked documentary evidence relating to the curriculum, including schemes of work and the curriculum policy, that were supplied by the school’s leadership.  The inspector reviewed the proprietor body’s policies in relation to welfare, health and safety. A scrutiny of the safeguarding procedures, including recruitment processes and checks, was also undertaken.  The inspector toured the school premises with the headteacher.

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Inspection team

John Nixon, lead inspector Her Majesty’s Inspector guidance ‘Raising concerns and making a complaint about Ofsted’, which is available from Ofsted’s website: www.gov.uk/government/publications/complaints-about-ofsted . If you would like Ofsted to send you a copy of the guidance, please telephone 0300 123 4234, or email enquiries@ofsted.gov.uk .

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Inspection team

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Inspection team

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Inspection team

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Inspection team

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Inspection team

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Inspection team

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