LIFE Wirral Sports School

School pre-registration inspection report

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Life Wirral (Independent) Sport School 126 Victoria Road, Wallasey CH45 9LD

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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)(g), 2(2)(h), 2(2)(i), 3, 3(a), 3(b), 3(c), 3(d), 3(e), 3(g), 3(h), 3(i), 3(j) and 4  The proprietor has shared effectively with the advisory board his clear educational vision for the school, which is for pupils to develop confidence, resilience and respect during their time at the school. The detailed curriculum policy for the proposed schools is supported well be clear plans and schemes of work. The proprietor’s aims are to enable pupils to become responsible citizens who contribute positively to society.  The proprietor intends to provide a combination of full and part-time education that is dependent on the requirements of pupils’ individual needs. Leaders expect that pupils who attend the proposed school will have an education, health and care (EHC) plan

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Main inspection findings

and will be funded by their relevant local authority. The curriculum will also allow pupils to undertake external examinations and qualifications at appropriate levels of difficulty.  The proprietor intends to recruit staff who have the required knowledge, skills and understanding to deliver the curriculum effectively. Leaders plan to provide further up- to-date training for staff to ensure that they effectively support pupils’ learning.  The intended curriculum will ensure that pupils will gain experience of a range of appropriate subjects required by the independent school standards. Leaders plan to liaise with pupils’ current schools prior to their attendance at Life Wirral. Leaders will gather the relevant information about pupils’ academic attainment, their social, emotional and mental health, and their attitudes to learning. Leaders will use assessment information to adapt the curriculum when necessary to meets pupils’

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Main inspection findings

individual needs and the requirements of their EHC plans.  Appropriate quality resources that staff need to support pupils’ learning effectively are in place. These resources include materials to support the teaching of reading, including phonics for those pupils at the early stages of reading, writing, mathematics and the wider curriculum. Leaders intend to use the curriculum resources from the online Oak Academy to supplement resources further when necessary.  Leaders plan to provide suitable impartial careers guidance to pupils from a specialist independent provider.  There are plans in place to provide parents and carers with an annual report about their children’s progress throughout their time at the school.  The proprietor has ensured that the independent school standards in this part 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),

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Main inspection findings

5(c), 5(d), 5(d)(i), 5(d)(ii) and 5(d)(iii)  Leaders have planned a curriculum which actively promotes fundamental British values. The values of democracy, individual liberty, rule of law and resilience are embedded in the proposed school’s ethos.  Leaders have been proactive in developing links with local charities that will actively promote pupils’ mutual respect and tolerance for others, particularly with regard to gender, sexuality and different faiths.  Curriculum plans highlight a wide range of opportunities to develop pupils’ personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) education. These plans promote how pupils can make the right decisions when budgeting their finances. They also promote how pupils can recognise the risks of unhealthy relationships, including exploitation through gang culture.  The proprietor has ensured that the independent school standards in this part are likely to be met

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Main inspection findings

Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils Paragraph 7, 7(a), 7(b)  The proprietor has ensured that the safeguarding policy pays due regard to the most up-to-date guidance from the Secretary of State. The policy will be made available to parents and carers on request. This policy will be published on the school’s website. The policy clearly sets out the responsibility of staff at all levels to keep pupils safe. The policy includes guidance for staff on how to report any concerns that they may have about a pupil. The proprietor has an appropriate system in place to ensure that all records are securely kept. Appropriate plans and procedures are in place for the managing and recording of any safeguarding incidents should they occur.  Leaders and staff are secure in their knowledge of safeguarding. The proprietor intends that all staff will complete appropriate safeguarding training, including that relating to radicalisation and extremism, as part of the well-planned induction process.

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Main inspection findings

Plans are in place to teach pupils, through the PSHE curriculum, how to keep themselves safe in a variety of situations. Paragraph 9, 9(a), 9(b), 9(c)  A suitable policy relating to behaviour expectations and behaviour management is in place. Expectations of pupils, staff and leaders are clear. The policy identifies training and strategies that may be used by staff to promote positive behaviour and a calm and respectful environment. The policy also identifies appropriate sanctions and rewards that staff may use. Leaders plan to use an appropriate record-keeping system to record any incidents of inappropriate behaviour. Paragraph 10  The proprietor has ensured that an appropriate written policy to prevent bullying is in place. The policy identifies the different forms that bullying can take. It sets out clear expectations of pupils, staff and leaders. The policy provides guidance for staff on the appropriate actions to take, and strategies that they can use to prevent bullying.

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Main inspection findings

Paragraph 11  A suitable health and safety policy is in place. Plans are in place for a suitably qualified person to carry out regular checks, including those required for portable electrical appliances. All required checks are up-to-date and have been completed in time for the opening of the school. Paragraph 12  The proprietor has ensured that a suitable fire risk assessment is in place. A suitably experienced member of the advisory board plans to check the fire alarm and emergency lighting frequently. Fire evacuation procedures are clearly displayed throughout the school. All emergency exits and evacuation routes to the assembly point at the front of the building are clear. Plans are in place to carry out a weekly evacuation practice once the school opens. Paragraph 13, 14, 15  The proprietor has ensured that a suitable first-aid policy is in place. Leaders are secure in their knowledge of first aid. This is because current staff, including the

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Main inspection findings

proprietor, have recently completed first-aid training. The proprietor intends that all new staff will complete first-aid training.  The proposed staff numbers are suitable to ensure that pupils are adequately supervised.  The proposed school’s admission register is detailed and complies with relevant guidance. The proprietor intends to provide a combination of full and part-time education that is dependent on the requirements of pupils’ individual needs. Paragraph 16 (a), 16(b)  Risk assessments are in place for the new premises. Leaders have taken appropriate actions to minimise the potential health and safety risks for staff and pupils while in school. Risk assessments have also been completed for other activities off-site, for example when using a local gym or when visiting places in the local area.  The proprietor has ensured that the independent school standards in this part are likely to be met

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Main inspection findings

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors Paragraph 17, 18, 18(1), 18(2), 18(2)(a), 18(2)(b), 18(2)(c), 18(2)(c)(i), 18(2)(c)(ii), 18(2)(c)(iii), 18(2)(c)(iv), 18(2)(d), 18(2)(e), 18(3), 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) 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)(b), 20(6)(b)(i), 20(6)(b)(ii), 20(6)(b)(iii), 20(6)(c)  The proprietor, other leaders and members of the advisory board demonstrate a detailed understanding of the checks that need to be made on all staff before they commence employment at the school.  The proprietor has carried out the appropriate checks for those who hold leadership roles in the school, including members of the advisory board.

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Main inspection findings

 The proprietor has appointed a headteacher and several members of staff in readiness for the school to open. Appropriate suitability checks have been made. Plans are in place to employ more staff should the number of pupils increase.  Leaders intend to only contract supply staff from an independent agency when required. They have a secure understanding of the need to ensure that all appropriate checks are completed before any supply staff are contracted to work in the school.  The proprietor has ensured that the independent school standards in this part are likely to be met. Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools Paragraph 23(1)(a), 23(1)(b), 23(1)(c), 24(1), 24(1)(a), 24(1)(b), 25, 26, 27, 27(a), 27(b), 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)  The proprietor has recently managed the refurbishment of the school to a high standard to ensure that it provides a safe and welcoming environment in which pupils

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Main inspection findings

can learn.  There are several smaller learning rooms that will be used primarily for one-to-one and small group work. There are three larger rooms that have been carefully designed to provide space for pupils to socialise and work together. These include the nutrition room and kitchen area. There is also a suitably resourced gym. A room which is solely to be used as a medical room is suitably equipped. The suite of offices and a room for staff to use when they are not with the pupils are off limits to pupils. The residential flat on the top floor of the building is secure. Pupils do not have access to this area. This means that the well-designed building is ready to be used for staff to meet the requirements of the proposed curriculum.  The rooms are well ventilated and have appropriate heating and lighting. Acoustics are suitable, with little disturbance from external or internal noise. The furniture is

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Main inspection findings

appropriate for the proposed use of each room and the proposed number and age of pupils.  The arrangements for the safety of pupils and staff have been considered. The communal areas of the building are bright and well maintained. Internal staircases are well-lit and clear of clutter. Suitable handrails are in place and banisters are at an appropriate height for the age of the intended pupils. Clear signage is in place to identify the fire assembly point. External lighting is in place, including the lighting of the car park for anyone arriving and exiting the premises.  Suitable individual toilets for boys and girls are located on each floor. They also provide appropriate washing facilities. The facilities for pupils and adults with disabilities are situated on the ground floor, adjacent to the medical room. These toilets are also for the use of visitors to the school. There are suitable separate changing rooms with showers for boys and girls. The temperature of the water is

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Main inspection findings

appropriate and does not pose a scalding risk. Drinking water is clearly labelled and available throughout the day from strategically placed water coolers on each floor.  There is appropriate outdoor space at the rear of the building. The outdoor area provides pupils with suitable space to socialise and has a designated seating area. There is a covered area with appropriate outdoor gym equipment. A small garden area is also being developed. The majority of the outdoor space will be used for physical education (PE) and recreation. The space covered with artificial grass can be used in all weathers. Additional PE lessons will also be provided at a local gym facility. Suitable risk assessments are in place for the use of the outdoor area. Additionally, risk assessments are in place for when pupils use facilities away from the school site, to minimise any risk to pupils.  The proprietor has ensured that the independent school standards in this part are

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Main inspection findings

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’s website is currently under development. Leaders demonstrate a secure knowledge of the information that needs to be available on the website once it is completed. Appropriate information is available on request from the school, including the school’s prospectus, the safeguarding policy and the arrangements for admission.  Leaders have provided appropriate information about the school’s planned curriculum. All policies are available to parents from the school office. The proprietor intends to publish them on the school’s website when it is complete.  Leaders intend to follow the reporting format set out by the relevant local authority

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Main inspection findings

for pupils with an EHC plan. The report will identify the support that the school provides, which is matched to pupils’ individual needs, and it will effectively contribute to pupils’ annual reviews.  Leaders understand their obligation and duty to report on the income and expenditure of funds for pupils placed in the school by a local authority.  The proprietor has ensured that the independent school standards in this part 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)  A written complaint policy is in place which complies with the independent school standards. The policy is available for parents and others on request. It clearly sets out the steps to be taken at each stage of the complaint process. These steps include leaders’ actions following a complaint and outline a complainant’s rights of appeal.

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Main inspection findings

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 timescales to investigate a complaint are appropriate.  The proprietor has ensured that the independent school standards in this part 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 has a clear vision for the school. He has ensured that leaders in the school have the experience and knowledge required to carry out their roles effectively.  The proprietor has ensured that the members of the advisory board have the expertise, knowledge and understanding that they need to hold leaders to account.  The proprietor has ensured that all the independent school standards are likely to be met when the school opens. Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010  There is a suitable accessibility plan in place.

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Main inspection findings

 Consequently, the requirements 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

Annual fees (day pupils) £12,000 to £120,000

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Proposed school details

Date of previous standard inspection Not previously inspected

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recommendation

Age range of pupils 0 7–18 11–18 Number of pupils on the school roll 0 20 20

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recommendation

The proprietor informed the inspector on arrival on site for the inspection that the school would not be admitting key stage 2 pupils.

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Gender of pupils 0 Mixed Number of full-time pupils of compulsory school age 0 20

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities 0 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 0 20

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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 0 20

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of full-time equivalent teaching staff 2 10

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of staff in the welfare provision 1 8

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Information about this proposed school

 This is the first pre-registration inspection of Life Wirral (Independent) Sport School.  The school is located in a converted detached building with accommodation over three floors.  The proposed school will cater for 20 pupils aged 11 to 18. It is expected that all pupils will have an EHC plan.

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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.  During the inspection, meetings were held with the proprietor, the headteacher and members of the advisory board.  The inspector checked a range of documentary evidence relating to the curriculum, including the curriculum policy, schemes of work and assessment arrangements.  The inspector reviewed the policies relating to the independent school standards for the suitability of the school’s premises and toured the school’s premises with the proprietor, the headteachers and a member of the school’s advisory board.  The inspector also reviewed policies relating to welfare, health and safety, including the procedures in place for the recruitment of staff for the proposed school.

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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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Inspection team

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