Progress Schools - Gorton

School pre-registration inspection report

p.1

Progress Schools - Gorton Hideout Youth Zone, 1 Queens Avenue, Manchester M12 5PX

p.1

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), 4  The proprietor body has a written curriculum policy. This is supported by appropriate schemes of work and plans which cover linguistic, mathematical, scientific, technological, human and social, physical and aesthetic and creative subjects, as required by the independent school standards. The learning activities will be planned to meet the individual needs of the pupils who will attend the school, most of whom will have special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).  Leaders have a comprehensive assessment policy and a detailed process in place to record information securely. This will be used to identify pupils’ academic, social and

p.1

Main inspection findings

emotional needs on admission to the school. Leaders will use information provided by the pupils’ current school to support the assessment. Staff will use this information to plan the appropriate support for pupils. Pupils will also be able to undertake external examinations and qualifications at appropriate levels of difficulty.  The proprietor body has ensured that high-quality resources and equipment are in place to support pupils’ learning. For example, in music, pupils will have the opportunity to learn how to play an instrument, and how to use the sound studio to record their musical performances.  The proprietor body intends to appoint staff with the appropriate knowledge, skills and understanding in all subjects to be able to deliver the proposed curriculum effectively. This will ensure that pupils attending the school will receive high-quality teaching. Plans are in place to provide regular professional training for staff to ensure

p.1

Main inspection findings

that they know and can use appropriate teaching techniques.  Leaders intend to provide suitable impartial careers guidance to pupils from a specialist independent provider.  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), 5(c), 5(d), 5(d)(i), 5(d)(ii) and 5(d)(iii)  The proprietor body plans to make sure that the pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural (SMSC) development is paramount. SMSC is woven carefully throughout the proposed curriculum. Schemes of work include how fundamental British values and respect for all the protected characteristics will be actively promoted.  The planned curriculum provides a wide range of opportunities for pupils to learn about and understand diversity. For example, pupils will take part in discussions about

p.1

Main inspection findings

local and national issues. This will help pupils to develop a respect and tolerance for alternative views, particularly with regard to sexuality and gender.  Pupils will be encouraged to play an active role in the local community by supporting local charities and community projects. For example, pupils will work together to make the park that is adjacent to the school building a safe place to be.  The independent school standards in this part are likely to be met. Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils Paragraph 7, 7(a), 7(b)  The proprietor body has ensured that the comprehensive safeguarding policy complies with the most up-to-date guidance from the Secretary of State. Detailed procedures are in place for managing and recording any safeguarding incidents. All records will be securely kept. All necessary arrangements are in place to keep pupils safe.  Leaders are secure in their knowledge of safeguarding. A senior member of the

p.2

Main inspection findings

proprietor body oversees the monitoring of safeguarding and welfare across all of the schools within the group. The proprietor body intends that all new members of staff will receive safeguarding training as part of the rigorous induction programme. This will include how to keep pupils safe from radicalisation, extremism and exploitation. The curriculum plans include themes which will teach pupils how to keep themselves safe in a variety of situations, such as when they are not in school and when they are using the internet. Paragraph 9, 9(a), 9(b), 9(c)  A comprehensive policy relating to the positive management of pupils’ behaviour is in place. The policy provides guidance for staff on the strategies that may be used to manage pupils’ behaviour. This policy includes the appropriate use of sanctions and rewards. Detailed and secure recording procedures are in place. Pupils’ individual records will be monitored. This will allow staff to provide the appropriate support that

p.2

Main inspection findings

pupils may need to be able to better manage their emotions and actions in a range of situations and relationships. Paragraph 10  Leaders have ensured that an appropriate anti-bullying policy is in place. The detailed policy provides guidance for staff on the strategies that they can use to prevent bullying. Suitable reference is made to the different forms that bullying can take and the actions that staff will follow should any incidents of bullying occur. Paragraph 11  A suitable health and safety policy is in place. The health and safety of pupils and staff have been carefully considered. For example, it is intended that the building will be for the sole use of pupils who attend the school during the school day. Paragraph 12  Leaders have a comprehensive fire risk assessment in place. Fire evacuation procedures are clearly displayed throughout the building. All emergency exits, emergency lighting and the sprinkler system are linked to the fire alarm system. All

p.2

Main inspection findings

evacuation routes are clear from clutter. Plans are in place to practise weekly evacuation drills once the school opens. Paragraph 13, 14, 15  Leaders have ensured that an appropriate first-aid policy is in place. Suitable training for staff is planned as part of their comprehensive induction programme.  The proposed staff numbers are suitable to ensure that pupils will be well supervised during lunchtime, breaktime and at the start and end of the school day.  The proposed attendance register is detailed. Leaders intend for the register to be completed in line with national guidance. It will allow leaders to monitor pupils’ attendance effectively and provide additional information for each pupil’s individual record.  The proposed school’s detailed admission policy complies with the Education (Pupil Registration) Regulations 2006. It is intended that most pupils will be dual registered with the commissioning school within the local authority.

p.3

Main inspection findings

Paragraph 16 (a), 16(b)  Leaders have comprehensive risk assessments in place for the new building. Leaders have taken appropriate actions to minimise the potential health and safety risks for staff and pupils while they are in school. Additional risk assessments are completed for activities off site and when pupils access additional facilities at the ‘Hideout Youth Zone’, for example the climbing wall and gym.  The independent school standards in this part are likely to be met. 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),

p.3

Main inspection findings

20(6)(a)(i), 20(6)(b), 20(6)(b)(i), 20(6)(b)(ii), 20(6)(b)(iii), 20(6)(c)  Members of the proprietor body know the required checks which need to be completed on the suitability of staff before they employ them in the school. All the appropriate checks for staff already employed, including those relating to the leadership and management of the school, have been completed. Leaders know what checks need to be carried out on the suitability of supply staff.  Plans to recruit additional teachers and support staff are in place. Supply staff will only be contracted from an independent agency when necessary.  A senior member of the proprietor body is the head of safeguarding and welfare across all the schools. Leaders for the proposed school have been suitably trained to be the designated safeguarding lead.  The independent school standards in this part are likely to be met. Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

p.3

Main inspection findings

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), 29(1)(b)  The proposed school is based in a new building. It has been completed to a high standard.  The proposed school will use two floors of the building and has suitable disabled access to each floor via a lift. On the first floor, there are four rooms solely designated for the use of the school during the day. These include specific rooms for art and cookery. The large communal space will be used solely for pupils from the proposed school during the day for socialising and for daily breakfast and lunch. The management suite for the building, situated on the first floor, is off limits to pupils.  The ground floor has toilet facilities for pupils with disabilities. The medical room houses a basin with running water and a bed with suitable bedding. It is near to a

p.4

Main inspection findings

toilet.  There are appropriate individual toilet facilities for the sole use of pupils at the school on the first floor. There are suitable handwashing facilities and the hot water is at an appropriate temperature. There are clear signs near taps where the water is not suitable for drinking. Pupils will have access to suitable drinking water throughout the day from water coolers situated on each floor.  On the ground floor, there are separate individual changing rooms each with a shower. There is also a separate disabled changing facility with a wet room. The temperature of the water is suitable and does not pose a scalding risk.  The premises are maintained to a high standard throughout. All the rooms are well ventilated with suitable lighting and heating. There is little external or internal noise to disturb pupils while they are learning. All internal stairwells are free from clutter and well lit.

p.4

Main inspection findings

 Clear signage is in place to identify the fire assembly points. There is also an evacuation chair sited at the head of the staircase which can be used in the event of a fire.  There is suitable external lighting for anyone arriving at or exiting from the premises.  There is a large outdoor space which is safe and secure. The space provided is suitable for physical education in the multi-use games area.  The independent school standards in this part 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)  All the appropriate information is available on the school’s website or by request for parents and carers, including the school’s prospectus and the arrangements for admission.  Comprehensive information about the school’s planned curriculum is available on the

p.4

Main inspection findings

school’s website. A detailed range of policies, which fully reflect recent legislation, are in place and are also available for parents, including behaviour and safeguarding.  Leaders will provide detailed termly reports for parents. These reports will reflect pupils’ academic progress as well as their personal development and achievements. Each report will outline the support an individual pupil will receive while at the school. This information will contribute to any 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 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)  The written complaints policy is in place with appropriate timescales for dealing with

p.5

Main inspection findings

any concerns. It is available for parents on request. The policy sets out in detail the procedures that are in place for each stage of the complaints process. These include leaders’ actions following a complaint, a complainants’ right to appeal and the role of the independent complaints panel.  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 body and executive headteacher have a secure understanding of the independent school standards. Detailed plans show how they will monitor compliance regularly.  The proprietor body demonstrates clearly that it is likely to fulfil its responsibility to actively promote the well-being of pupils.  The proprietor body has ensured that all the independent school standards are likely to be met when the school opens. Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010

p.5

Main inspection findings

 There is a suitable accessibility plan in place.  Consequently, the requirements are likely to be met

p.5

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.

p.6

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.

p.7

Proposed school details

Annual fees (day pupils) £12,600 to £30,400

p.7

Proposed school details

Email address GortonPS@progress-schools.co.uk

p.7

Proposed school details

Date of previous standard inspection Not previously inspected

p.7

n

Age range of pupils Not applicable 11 to 16 11 to 16 Number of pupils on the school roll Not applicable Up to 35 Up to 35

p.8

School's current position School's proposal

Gender of pupils Not applicable Mixed Number of full-time pupils of compulsory school age Not applicable Up to 35

p.8

School's current position School's proposal

Number of part-time pupils Not applicable

p.8

School's current position School's proposal

Number of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities Not applicable Up to 35

p.8

School's current position School's proposal

Of which, number of pupils with an education, health and care plan Not applicable Up to 35

p.8

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 Up to 35

p.8

School's current position School's proposal

Number of full-time equivalent teaching staff 3 6

p.9

School's current position School's proposal

Number of staff in the welfare provision 0 2

p.9

Information about this proposed school

 This is the first pre-registration inspection of Progress School, Gorton. The proposed school will cater for 35 pupils aged from 11 to 16 years.  The school is one of 12 other similar schools located across the country. Progress Schools Limited is the proprietor body.  The local community has access to the building’s facilities, out-of-school hours, via the ‘Hideout Youth Zone’ membership scheme. All pupils who attend the school will be provided with membership.  Leaders propose to work closely with Manchester local authority, which will be the main referral route for placing pupils at the school.  Pupils who will attend the school are likely to be disengaged from education and at risk of exclusion from education because of behavioural difficulties or non-attendance.  Leaders propose to provide full-time education for pupils. Pupils are likely to have SEND, and some may have an education, health and care plan, predominantly for

p.9

Information about this proposed school

social, emotional and mental health needs.

p.9

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 chief executive officer who represents the proprietor body, the senior operational executive and the headteacher.  I checked a range of documents relating to the curriculum, including the curriculum policy, schemes of work and assessment arrangements.  I also reviewed policies relating to welfare, health and safety, including the procedures in place for the recruitment of staff for the proposed school.  Policies relating to the independent school standards for the suitability of the school’s premises were also reviewed, including those relating to the reduction of risk. I had a tour of the school site with a senior member of the executive board and the executive

p.10

Inspection team

Amanda Stringer, 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 1231, or email enquiries@ofsted.gov.uk .

p.10

Inspection team

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.

p.11

Inspection team

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 .

p.11

Inspection team

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.

p.11

Inspection team

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 .

p.11

Inspection team

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

p.11

Inspection team

T: 0300 123 1231 Textphone: 0161 618 8524 E: enquiries@ofsted.gov.uk W: www.gov.uk/ofsted

p.11