Redwood Montessori School

School pre-registration inspection report

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The Worksop Montessori School 86 Newcastle Avenue, Worksop, Nottinghamshire, S80 1LA

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Main inspection findings

Part 1. Quality of education provided Paragraphs 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)(e), 2(2)(h), 2(2)(i), 2A(1), 2A(1)(a), 2A(1)(d), 2A(1)(e), 2A(1)(f), 2A(1)(g), 2A(2), 3, 3(a), 3(b), 3(c), 3(d), 3(e), 3(f), 3(g), 3(h), 3(i), 3(j), 4  There is a written curriculum policy for the school. The policy outlines the proposed teaching and learning framework. The framework is rooted in the Montessori principles.  The school will follow the Montessori primary curriculum. The proprietors aim to provide pupils with individualised education that ‘instils curiosity for learning and discovery’. Pupils will learn at their own pace in mixed-aged classes. They will have opportunities to develop independence and work collaboratively with others. They will be encouraged to be empathetic and respectful citizens.  Appropriate plans are in place to ensure that the needs of pupils with special

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Main inspection findings

educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) and those who speak English as an additional language are met.  Pupils will be able to study linguistic, mathematical, scientific, technological, human and social, physical and aesthetic, and creative education. Some of these subjects will be taught by specialist teachers employed by the school. Teaching materials and resources are carefully planned to support pupils to achieve their potential.  The proprietors have a comprehensive understanding of the Montessori curriculum and ethos. They are keen to ensure that teachers have qualified teacher status and have the necessary subject knowledge, skills and expertise. Some of these members of staff are currently undertaking further training to ensure that they have the necessary skills to teach the Montessori primary curriculum.  The proprietors have developed suitable plans for a regular cycle of assessment of

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Main inspection findings

pupils’ progress and attainment. This information will be stored electronically for teachers to use to plan pupils’ next steps.  The 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), 5(d)(iii)  The proprietors have ensured that the school’s curriculum teaches pupils to understand the fundamental British values. Learning in different subject areas revisits these values in different ways. For example, pupils learn about the value of liberty by comparing events during different historical periods and in different cultures.  The proposed personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) education is suitable. Pupils can build their knowledge and understanding of equality, diversity and the wider world. Planned themes also include a range of topics such as keeping and

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Main inspection findings

staying healthy, money matters, being responsible, first aid and computer safety.  Curriculum plans and school policies show a strong focus on developing pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. For example, in PSHE and geography, pupils will learn about different faiths and beliefs around the world.  The proprietors have drafted a policy for the teaching of relationships and sex education. Parents and carers will be consulted on the policy and its implementation. Parents’ right to withdraw pupils from aspects of this subject is clearly stated.  The proprietors intend to provide a nurturing school where pupils can build positive relationships. The Montessori ethos aims to ensure that all pupils are, ‘safe, secure and confident’ in school.  The standards in this part are likely to be met. Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils Paragraphs 7, 7(a), 7(b), 9, 9(a), 9(b), 9(c), 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 16(a), 16(b)

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Main inspection findings

 There is a suitable safeguarding policy for the school. The proprietors understand the statutory guidance. They are experienced in managing safeguarding concerns and understand the need to share information appropriately.  The proprietors know when to make safeguarding referrals. They have identified a suitably qualified person to be the designated safeguarding lead when the school opens. Staff are to be trained to keep pupils safe. Pupils will be taught about potential risks and how to keep themselves safe.  Policies to ensure the health and safety of pupils are appropriate. Policies such as the health-and-safety and fire-safety policy detail the arrangements and procedures that will be implemented to keep staff and pupils safe. For example, there will be regular checks to firefighting equipment. There are emergency escape routes.  The first-aid policy provides guidance for staff to care for pupils who may need basic

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Main inspection findings

medical care when in school. The proprietors will ensure that staff are qualified to administer first aid.  The written risk-assessment policy is comprehensive. It provides guidance to staff to check assessments of risk and identify the actions necessary to reduce risks for pupils.  The proprietors have made sure that the school is compliant with the requirements of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. A risk assessment has been carried out. A trained fire warden is employed by the proprietors to check the school’s compliancy. A fire alarm is in place and is tested regularly. Fire evacuation procedures will be practised to ensure pupils know what to do in the event of a fire.  Admission and attendance registers will be electronic and contain the required information.  The standards in this part are likely to be met. Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors Paragraphs 18(2), 18(2)(a), 18(2)(b), 18(2)(c), 18(2)(c)(i), 18(2)(c)(ii), 18(2)(c)(iii),

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Main inspection findings

18(2)(c)(iv), 18(2)(d), 18(2)(e), 18(3), 19(2), 19(2)(a), 19(2)(a)(i), 19(2)(a)(i)(aa), 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)(i), 20(6)(b)(ii), 20(6)(b)(iii), 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(5), 21(5)(a), 21(5)(a)(i), 21(5)(a)(ii), 21(5)(c), 21(6)  The proprietors understand the safer recruitment requirements. At the time of the inspection, staff were yet to be appointed. Some staff are to be appointed who currently work in the nursery provision. They will work across both settings.  A single central record is in place. When staff are recruited it will show the checks that have been carried out on staff before they are employed. The proprietors plan to

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Main inspection findings

ensure that all relevant checks are recorded for all staff and adults who will be working closely with pupils.  The standards in this part are likely to be met. Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools Paragraphs 23(1), 23(1)(a), 23(1)(b), 24(1), 24(1)(a), 24(1)(b), 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 school premises were previously used for educational purposes. The impact of the pandemic has delayed the progress of the refurbishment of the building. Contractors have not been able to complete work as originally planned. However, the proprietors are knowledgeable and experienced. They intend to ensure the necessary work is carried out to a good standard and that the health, safety and welfare of staff and pupils are well considered.  Windows are to be fitted with restraints and guards. Stairs are to be secured with

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Main inspection findings

additional banisters and guards to keep pupils safe from falling.  Suitable washing and toilet facilities are planned for the sole use of pupils. These are in the process of being installed. An accessible toilet is planned. A suitable medical and first-aid room is provided but is in need of redecoration.  There is suitable outdoor space for pupils to play. However, there is not a suitable indoor or outdoor space for physical education (PE) lessons. The proprietors intend for pupils to be taught PE off site at a local Methodist hall and at a local playing field. Pupils will be taught by a specialist PE teacher.  Classrooms are well lit but some lighting is in the process of being repaired and fitted. The lighting will be appropriate when in good working order. External lighting is fit for purpose.  Adequate running water is supplied to the premises. However, water is not yet connected for the school’s toilets. There are appropriate plans in place to resolve this.

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Main inspection findings

Water elsewhere in the building does not pose a risk of scalding at the point of use.  Water suitable for drinking is available at various points throughout the school. The proprietors intend to install suitable signage to indicate where drinking water will be available.  There is insufficient space or toilet facilities to accommodate the proposed number of pupils. The proprietors agree that the building is more suitable for up to 30 pupils.  The standards in this part are likely to be met if the proprietors implement the plans for the school as intended. 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)(g), 32(1)(h), 32(2), 32(2)(a), 32(2)(b), 32(2)(b)(ii), 32(2)(d), 32(3), 32(3)(a), 32(3)(b), 32(3)(c), 32(3)(d), 32(3)(e), 32(3)(f), 32(3)(g)  The proprietors can provide information and pertinent policies for the school to parents on request.

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Main inspection findings

 The school does not yet have a dedicated website. The proprietors intend to begin work to construct a website in the coming months. The proprietors will make the necessary information available for parents through the website when it is launched.  There are suitable policies in place that detail how pupils with SEND and those who speak English as an additional language will be supported.  The 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)  There is a comprehensive complaints policy in place. The policy is accessible for parents.  The policy outlines the actions that parents can take if they have a complaint about any aspect of the school’s work. Timescales and procedures for dealing with complaints are clearly explained.  The standards in this part are likely to be met.

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Main inspection findings

Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools Paragraph 34(1), 34(1)(a), 34(1)(b), 34(1)(c)  The proprietors have a good understanding of the independent school standards and understand their statutory duties and responsibilities. The proprietors are experienced and plan to make frequent checks to ensure that pupils are well cared for, safe and make good progress with their learning and personal development.  The proprietors intend to employ several of the staff who currently work at the Montessori nursery which is located on the first floor of the proposed school. This nursery is also owned and led by the proprietors. These members of staff are experienced Montessori practitioners.  The proprietors intend to hold staff to account for the performance of the school. Plans are in place to ensure staff are supervised appropriately so that they receive challenge and support to provide the best for pupils.

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Main inspection findings

 The proprietors are aspirational for the education the school can provide for its pupils. They have ensured that good quality resources have been purchased to support teaching and learning.  The standards in this part are likely to be met. Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010  There is a suitable accessibility plan for the school. The proprietors have considered arrangements to improve access for pupils to the school’s curriculum and environment. The proprietors intend to amend the plan if necessary, once building work on the school is complete.  The school is likely to meet the regulation.

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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

Proprietor Redwood Scholars Montessori Ltd

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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 5 to 11 5 to 11 Number of pupils on the school roll Not applicable 40 30

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recommendation

Reason for inspector’s recommendations  The proposed school does not have sufficient space or toilet facilities to accommodate 40 pupils. It is recommended that the number on roll is amended to no more 30 pupils.

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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 30

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School’s current position School’s proposal

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 To be confirmed

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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 0

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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 0

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of full-time equivalent teaching staff Not applicable 6

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of part-time teaching staff Not applicable 4

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Information about this proposed school

 The proprietor also has responsibility for Redwood Scholars Schools Limited, Redwood Scholars (Derby) Limited and Redwood Scholars Tuition Ltd.  The proprietorial body consists of two directors. One of the directors will also be the headteacher of the school.  The school will specialise in the Montessori curriculum and principles.  The school will be situated on the first floor of a three-storey building. One classroom will be situated on the second floor.  Alphabet House Montessori Day Nursery shares the same premises as the proposed school. It occupies the ground floor. The nursery is also owned and led by the proprietor.  The school proposes to open to key stage 1 pupils in September 2022. Initially, the proprietor intends to admit up to five pupils in the first term.  The design of the building means that the school cannot accommodate pupils who use wheelchairs.  The school is unlikely to admit pupils with education, health and care (EHC) plans.

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Information about this proposed school

 The proprietor will offer before- and after-school care for pupils.

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Information about this inspection

 The Department for Education commissioned the inspection to check the provision’s suitability to operate as a school.  This was the proposed school’s first pre-registration inspection.  The inspector met with the proprietor, who is also the headteacher.  The inspector toured the school site to check the suitability of the premises. The inspector also checked the school’s health-and-safety and risk-assessment policies and fire-safety procedures.  The inspector reviewed the proprietor’s plans for the refurbishment of the proposed school site.  The inspector scrutinised a variety of documentation, including curriculum schemes of work and policies.  The inspector checked the school’s proposed single central record and discussed the proprietor’s approaches to ensuring the safeguarding, health, safety and welfare of pupils.

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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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