Pollyteach Limited

School material change inspection report

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Pollyteach Limited The Gables Farm (Bleak Hall), Off Beauvale Roade, Kirkby in Ashfield, Nottinghamshire NG17

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Main inspection findings

Part 1. Quality of education provided Paragraph 2(1), 2(1)(a), 2(1)(b), 2(1)(b)(i), 2(1)(b)(ii), 2(2), 2(2)(a), 2(2)(b), 2(2)(d), 2(2)(d)(i), 2(2)(d)(ii), 2(2)(g), 2(2)(h), 2(2)(i)  Leaders have prepared the school’s curriculum to cover the proposed learning for key stage 2. The proposed education provision closely matches the school’s aims and ethos. The school intends to provide a broad and balanced curriculum for all pupils aged eight to 11. This is closely linked to the national curriculum. It covers all of the required areas of learning. Leaders have considered the development of pupils’ speaking, listening, literacy and numeracy skills.  Leaders have developed a curriculum overview and schemes of work for a range of subjects. They have developed curriculum plans that take into consideration the ages and aptitudes of pupils they plan to teach. These include pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities. The plans include a suitable range of teaching

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Main inspection findings

approaches and resources.  Leaders have planned a personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) education curriculum that will be taught across a range of subjects, through discreet lessons and daily personal development sessions. It is clear how staff will ensure that pupils develop respect for others. This includes those with protected characteristics, as set out in the Equality Act 2010. The PSHE curriculum aims to provide pupils with the knowledge and skills for their future lives. Paragraphs 3, 3(a), 3(b), 3(c), 3(d), 3(e), 3(f), 3(g), 3(h), 3(i), 3(j), 4  Leaders have considered the range of experiences and skills that staff will need if the proposed age range increase is approved. The school has employed staff with the relevant qualifications and experiences. They are well prepared to teach pupils in key stage 2. Currently, pupils are taught by staff who have strong subject knowledge. Teachers make good use of detailed curriculum plans to deliver lessons. They

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Main inspection findings

structure and tailor lessons to meet the individual needs of pupils in small classes. The school has the capacity to teach pupils across the proposed age range.  The school’s existing approach to managing behaviour is effective and reflects high expectations. Leaders and staff closely monitor pupils’ behaviour and attendance. The school’s approach to managing behaviour would be suitable for younger pupils, should the age range proposal be approved.  There is an established assessment framework in place to assess, monitor and evaluate pupils’ progress. Assessment is linked to the planned curriculum. The system is appropriate for key stage 2 if the proposed change is approved.  The school is likely to meet the independent school standards in this part if the school receives approval for the implementation of the material changes. Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils Paragraph 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),

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Main inspection findings

5(d), 5(d)(i), 5(d)(ii), 5(d)(iii)  The school provides rich opportunities for current pupils to develop spiritually, morally, socially and culturally. Pupils reflect on ‘big questions’ and learn about different faiths and cultures. These opportunities will be further developed and made available to pupils in the proposed key stage 2 classes.  Pupils benefit from educational visits and links with the local community. For example, leaders have established a link with a local food bank. Pupils are gathering donations and are preparing to share these with the food bank as part of their harvest reflections. Pupils are planning a coffee morning to raise funds for a national charity.  Opportunities to develop pupils’ understanding of the fundamental British values of respect, the role of law, individual liberty and tolerance are planned across the curriculum. These will be extended to the proposed key stage 2 classes. Staff teach

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Main inspection findings

pupils to value and respects the opinions of others. Pupils have the opportunity to appreciates different cultures.  Leaders have planned a PSHE education curriculum that contributes to pupils’ understanding of healthy lifestyles and relationships. This includes well-structured planning for relationships education. This will prepare pupils well for life in modern Britain.  The school is likely to meet the independent school standards in this part if the school receives approval for the implementation of the material changes. Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils Paragraphs 7, 7(a), 7(b), 32(1), 32(1)(a), 32(1)(b), 32(1)(c)  The school has a safeguarding policy which is implemented effectively. This policy is supported with additional safeguarding guidance. The policy reflects the latest guidance provided by the Secretary of State.  The school’s safeguarding policy is published on the school website.

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Main inspection findings

 Staff receive regular safeguarding training and updates. They know what actions to take if they have any concerns about a pupil’s welfare. All concerns are taken seriously. Safeguarding leaders take appropriate actions. Leaders work with external agencies to support pupils when needed. Paragraphs 11, 12, 16, 16(a), 16(b)  The school has an appropriate health and safety policy. This is published on the school’s website. Leaders make sure that safety checks take place regularly. For example, the school’s records show that managers undertake hygiene and water temperature checks regularly. Health and safety audits have been undertaken for both sites that are subject to the material changes. Leaders respond promptly to identified issues to meet health and safety requirements. Such measures ensure pupils’ safety and welfare.  The school complies with the relevant fire safety regulations. Leaders ensure that

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Main inspection findings

checks on fire safety equipment, such as extinguishers, take place regularly. External fire audits have been undertaken for both sites subject to the material change inspection. Leaders plan and undertake regular fire drills. Their records identify actions following drills that need addressing. These actions are reviewed in subsequent fire drills.  The school’s risk assessment policy is up to date. The school has a range of written risk assessments. For example, each pupil has a risk assessment. These are regularly reviewed and updated. Risk assessments are written for a range of educational and extra-curricular activities. They include an evaluation of potential risks, with control measures needed to reduce risks. Leaders make sure that staff read and understand risk assessments that are relevant to their work.  The school is likely to meet the independent school standards in this part if the school

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Main inspection findings

receives approval for the implementation of the material changes. Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools Paragraphs 23(1), 23(1)(a), 23(1)(b), 23(1)(c), 23(2), 24(1), 24(1)(a), 24(1)(b), 24(1)(c), 24(2), 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 Loft premises provides first-floor accommodation that is adjacent to one of the school’s current sites, The Hub. The Elms premises is part of repurposed residential accommodation in the grounds of Portland College. The accommodation at both sites is secure and appropriate for the needs and age ranges of the pupils.  The school premises at both proposed sites are well maintained. Leaders make sure that facilities are safe for pupils. For example, drinking water is clearly labelled. Leaders carry out regular checks on water supplies across different areas of the school

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Main inspection findings

to ensure that supplies are appropriate and there is no risk of scalding.  The school provides suitable toilet and washing facilities for pupils. The Elms has shower facilities. Pupils at The Loft have access to shower facilities in The Hub, which is adjacent to The Loft.  Both proposed sites have medical areas and appropriate facilities for the short-term care of pupils who are unwell or injured. First-aid equipment is stored safely and is easily accessible. Beds are available if required, with washing facilities and toilets nearby.  The school’s premises are well maintained. Classrooms are clean, tidy and bright on both proposed sites. The Elms has two resourced multisensory rooms to support pupils’ well-being. Regular premises checks identify potential hazards and steps are taken to ensure pupils’ welfare, health and safety.  Classrooms and social spaces are well-lit. The acoustics in classrooms are suitable to

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Main inspection findings

enable effective learning. External lighting is in place at the entrances of both proposed sites.  The school has sufficient space for pupils to play outside. The Loft also has a covered outdoor space which leaders plan to develop as a teaching space. The outdoor spaces at both sites are secure.  The school is likely to meet the independent school standards in this part if the school receives approval for the implementation of the material changes. Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools Paragraph 34(1), 34(1)(a), 34(1)(b), 34(1)(c)  Leaders have given careful thought to the proposed changes in age range, increase in pupils’ numbers and the additional two sites. The directors, governors and headteacher demonstrate commitment to the school’s purpose and vision. They are committed to providing high-quality education for each pupil and are mindful that any changes to capacity do not have an adverse impact on pupils currently at the school.

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Main inspection findings

They actively promote pupils’ well-being.  In the last year, leaders have recognised that governance capacity needed to be strengthened. The proprietor board has appointed two new directors and have established a new governing body. This governance structure will serve to further support and challenge leaders more effectively if the school grows because of the material changes.  Directors and leaders have a secure understanding of their responsibilities. They fulfil their responsibilities to ensure that the independent school standards, relevant to the proposed changes, are met consistently.  The school is likely to meet the independent school standards in this part if it receives approval for the implementation of the material changes.

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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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School details

This inspection was carried out under section 162(4) of the Education Act 2002, the purpose of which is to advise the Secretary of State for Education about the school’s likely compliance with the independent school standards relevant to the material change that the school has applied to make.

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School details

Type of school Other independent special school

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School details

Annual fees (day pupils) £33,000 to £35,000

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School details

Date of previous standard inspection 4 to 6 December 2018

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recommendation

Age range of pupils 11 to 18 8 to 18 8 to 18

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recommendation

Number of pupils on the school roll 11 35 35

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Gender of pupils Mixed Mixed Number of full-time pupils of compulsory school age 11 35

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities 11 35

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Of which, number of pupils with an education, health and care plan 11 35

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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 11 35

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of full-time equivalent teaching staff 9 12

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of staff in the welfare provision 18 21

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Information about this school

 The school operates over four sites. They are: The Gables Farm (Bleak Hill), off Beauvale Road, NG17 9FW; The Hub, Forest Street, NG17 7BB; The Clubhouse, Sutton Road, NG17 8GS; and The Loft, 18-20 Diamond Avenue, NG17 7GR.  The school will stop operating from The Gables Farm (Bleak Hill) and will be based at The Loft if the material change request is approved.  The school is registered to admit 20 full-time pupils in the age range 11 to 18 years.  The school aims to be a ‘specialist provider for students with difficulty engaging in mainstream education’.  All pupils on roll have an education, health and care plan.  The company operates as an alternative provision for pupils at The Elms, Portland College, NG18 4TJ.  The school makes use of one alternative provision. It is Cast Angling Project, Newstead, Nottinghamshire, NG15 0BU. This is an unregistered alternative provision.  The school’s last standard inspection took place on 4 to 6 December 2018. At this

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Information about this school

inspection, the school was found to be meeting the independent school standards in full and was judged good.

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Information about this inspection

 The inspection was commissioned by the Department for Education because the school has requested to admit pupils from eight to 11 years of age. In addition, the school has requested the use of two new sites: The Loft, 18-20 Diamond Avenue, NG17 7GR and The Elms, Portland College, NG18 4TJ. The school has requested an increase in proposed numbers on roll from 20 to 35.  The material change has been partly implemented. Pupils in Years 7 to 11 currently attend The Loft’s premises.  This is the school’s first material change inspection in respect of the changes that the school has applied for.  The inspector met with the headteacher, the deputy headteacher, a director and the chair of governors.  The inspector scrutinised a range of documents provided by the school, including policies on safeguarding and health and safety, and details about the curriculum.  The inspector visited The Loft and The Elms and met with leaders to discuss the

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Information about this inspection

material change requests. He had a tour of both sites.

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Inspection team

Chris Davies, 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 .

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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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