Core Training and Development limited

School pre-registration inspection report

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Core Training and Development Networks House, Whitehall Industrial Estate, Whitehall Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS12 5JB

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Main inspection findings

Part 1. Quality of education provided Paragraph 1, 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)(g), 2(2)(h), 2(2)(i)  Since the first pre-registration inspection the proprietor has ensured that there is a written curriculum policy in place. It is available on the website for parents to access. The policy describes how the curriculum is organised and planned. The details of the policy demonstrate the proprietor’s intention to provide a curriculum which meets the needs of each individual pupil.  The curriculum has been carefully considered and includes a range of subjects to match the requirements of the independent school standards. These subjects include English; mathematics; science; personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) education; geography; history; art and physical education (PE).  The curriculum policy is supported by schemes of work for each subject, in each year

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Main inspection findings

group. Long-term plans are detailed and show the subject knowledge that pupils will learn. Schemes of work show how pupils’ knowledge will build over the time that they attend the school.  Following the first pre-registration inspection, the proprietor has set out clearly how the needs of pupils with education, health and care (EHC) plans and those who speak English as an additional language will be met. Paragraph 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)  Pupils will receive up-to-date independent careers guidance from an external service. This will support pupils to make the right decisions about their future education and employment. The proprietor is using the Gatsby benchmark as a framework to improve the provision for careers education.  The PSHE curriculum has been designed to incorporate the skills and knowledge that pupils will need when applying for placements and jobs. Pupils will explore a variety of

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Main inspection findings

career options, write curriculum vitae and attend mock interviews, to prepare them for the wider world.  Where pupils have a specific interest, the school has links with a local café, offices, and a garage to pursue opportunities for work experience.  Enterprise activities will provide pupils with the experience of thinking, planning and working with others, which are useful skills for adult life. Paragraph 2A(1), 2A(1)(a), 2A(1)(b), 2A(1)(c), 2A(1)(d), 2A(1)(e), 2A(1)(f), 2A(1)(g), 2(A)(2)  A relationships and sex education policy sets out how primary-aged pupils will receive relationships education and how secondary-aged pupils will receive relationships and sex education. Parents can access this policy on the school website.  If the school is granted permission to open, parents will be consulted on the content of the relationships and sex education scheme of work. They will be able to withdraw

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Main inspection findings

their child from certain elements if they so wish. Paragraph 3, 3(a), 3(b), 3(c), 3(d), 3(e), 3(f), 3(g), 3(h), 3(i), 3(j), 4  The proposed staff for the new school are experienced in teaching pupils with complex needs. They have strong subject knowledge of the subjects that they teach. This will contribute to pupils acquiring new knowledge and making good progress according to their individual abilities.  Pupils will be assessed on entry to the school. Information from their current settings and previous examination papers will be used to identify needs and inform teachers’ planning.  Leaders have considered carefully how they will manage pupils’ behaviour and encourage them to act as responsible citizens. The ethos of the school reflects a restorative and nurturing approach. Pupils are expected to think about their choices and consider the consequences of their actions. They will be expected to put things

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Main inspection findings

right when they have made a poor choice.  The proprietor is creating a culture where positive relationships between pupils and staff are a key feature. Staff will build trusting relationships with pupils, so that pupils have consistent and nurturing adults to support and encourage them.  The proprietor has ensured that these standards 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)  Discussions with leaders and documentary evidence indicate that the spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of the pupils will be central to the work of the school. The proprietor and headteacher have a detailed understanding of the complex needs of the prospective pupils. They are determined that they will make a positive difference to the outcomes of pupils who will attend the school.

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Main inspection findings

 The PSHE programme covers a wide range of themes to nurture pupils and to create opportunities for them to succeed in life. British values will be promoted through having challenging discussions and sharing opinions on issues in the news. The legal system will be explored through learning about criminality and sentencing.  The police and fire service will visit the school to develop pupils’ respect for public institutions and other people’s property.  Leaders place a high priority on helping pupils to develop their self-esteem and resilience. Pupils will receive specific teaching on the importance of self-esteem. They will have opportunities to try new things to develop their confidence. For example, reluctant readers will develop the confidence to read aloud in lessons.  The proprietor expects pupils to behave in a responsible way. The strong ethos of restorative practice will teach pupils about the consequences of their actions. Pupils

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Main inspection findings

will be encouraged to accept responsibility for their actions and make the right choices. Pupils will be rewarded for their responsible behaviour and honesty.  Pupils will learn about the protected characteristics, set out in the Equality Act 2010. They will know what the protected characteristics are and how the protected characteristics relate to them in everyday life.  The proprietor has ensured that these standards are likely to be met. Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils Paragraph 7, 7(a), 7(b)  The proprietor has ensured that the school’s safeguarding policy is compliant with the latest government guidance. It is available to parents on the school’s website.  All staff receive appropriate safeguarding training. This includes the procedures for reporting safeguarding and welfare concerns and understanding their responsibilities under the ‘Prevent’ duty.  Leaders have undertaken safer recruitment training. They already have systems in

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Main inspection findings

place to check the suitability of new staff throughout the recruitment process. Paragraph 9, 9(a), 9(b), 9(c), 10  A written behaviour policy is in place and is available for parents on the school’s website. The policy includes the rewards and sanctions that will be used in the school. The policy reflects the school’s ethos of nurture and restorative practice.  An anti-bullying policy explains what bullying is, why pupils bully and how incidents will be approached and dealt with. The policy includes advice for parents. Paragraph 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 16(a), 16(b)  A health and safety policy sets out staff expectations and their responsibilities relating to health and safety procedures. Risk assessments are already in place for aspects of the school’s work, including the buildings.  Appropriate checks are made to keep pupils and staff safe. Fire extinguishers, fire alarms, emergency lighting and fire escapes are checked regularly. Staff are

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Main inspection findings

knowledgeable about how to respond in an emergency through their training as fire marshals. Fire drills are planned to take place every term so that pupils and staff know how to exit the building safely.  The proprietor has put a first aid policy in place since the first pre-registration inspection. The policy sets out how first aid will be administered by trained staff and how accidents will be reported. An accident book is in place to record and monitor incidents that take place.  Admissions and attendance registers are in place. The proprietor understands the legal requirements of these documents.  Since the first pre-registration inspection the proprietor has drawn up a written risk assessment policy. This policy provides guidance to staff on what should be included in a risk assessment. The policy is on the school’s website. Risk assessments seen during this inspection were fit for purpose.  The proprietor has ensured that these standards are likely to be met.

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Main inspection findings

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors Paragraph 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), 21(7), 21(7)(a), 21(7)(b)  The proprietor has ensured that there is a procedure in place to check that new staff are suitable to work at the school. The proprietor intends to obtain all checks that are required for each member of staff before they commence employment.  The proprietor does not intend to use the services of supply staff. Leaders are aware of the checks that they must make if they decide to engage supply staff at a later date. The proprietor does not intend to invite volunteers to work in the school. 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)

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Main inspection findings

 The proprietor has prepared a single central record in electronic form. It is ready to use if the school is granted permission to open.  The proprietor has ensured that these standards are likely to be met. Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools Paragraph 22, 23(1), 23(1)(a), 23(1)(b), 23(1)(c), 23(2), 24(1)(a), 24(1)(b), 24(2)  There are suitable washing and toilet facilities for the sole use of pupils. The toilet facilities are separate for boys and girls aged eight years and over.  New shower facilities have been installed for pupils to use following PE lessons.  A medical room is available for the short-term care of sick or injured pupils. This room has a sink and is positioned close to a toilet facility. Paragraph 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)  Accommodation throughout the school meets the requirements for the health, safety

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Main inspection findings

and welfare of the pupils.  The acoustic conditions around the school are suitable for the type of activities that will take place. The classrooms are of a reasonable size and the lighting is adequate.  External lighting has been repaired since the previous pre-registration inspection and this means that pupils and staff can enter and leave the premises safely.  Pupils will be provided with drinking water throughout the day. Cold water supplies suitable for drinking are labelled as such.  Washing facilities around the school have an adequate supply of hot and cold water. The temperature of the hot water does not pose a scalding risk to the pupils. Paragraph 29(1), 29(1)(a), 29(1)(b)  The school building is surrounded on the perimeter by a high fence.  The proprietor is currently developing a paved area at the rear of the school as a play area for pupils to use if the school is given permission to open.

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Main inspection findings

 The proprietor has ensured that these standards 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)(g), 32(1)(h), 32(1)(i), 32(1)(j), 32(2), 32(2)(a), 32(2)(b), 32(2)(b)(i), 32(2)(b)(ii), 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), 32(3)(g)  The first pre-registration inspection report identified several standards in this part that were not likely to be met. The proprietor has taken action to ensure that these have now been addressed.  The name of the headteacher and contact details of the proprietor during term time and holidays are now on the website.  The admissions policy, curriculum policy and first aid policy are now in place and available to parents.  Information on how the school will support pupils who speak English as an additional language and pupils with EHC plans now features in the special educational needs

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Main inspection findings

policy and the curriculum policy.  A copy of the school’s safeguarding policy is on the website.  The school’s ethos is clearly promoted across a number of policies. Pupils are encouraged to be compassionate, optimistic, responsible and engaged in their everyday lives.  The proprietor intends to put on the website the particulars of the school’s academic performance during the preceding school year, if the school is granted permission to open.  The proprietor intends to publish future inspection reports on the website.  Templates are in place to report the progress that pupils make across the subjects of the curriculum. These reports will be available to parents, host schools and local authorities.  The proprietor intends to provide an annual account of income and expenditure to the local authority. This will inform how funding is accounted for in meeting the needs of pupils with EHC plans.  The proprietor has ensured that these standards are likely to be met.

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Main inspection findings

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)  Since the previous pre-registration inspection, the proprietor has amended the complaints policy, so that it now meets requirements.  The policy is in writing and is available to parents on the website. There are clear timescales outlined for each stage of the procedure. Complaints can be considered on an informal basis, and where the parent is not satisfied this can progress to a formal procedure.  The school will keep a written record of the outcomes and any actions that the school might take. These documents will be kept securely.  The proprietor has ensured that these standards are likely to be met. Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools Paragraph 34(1), 34(1)(a), 34(1)(b) and 34(1)(c)  The proprietor has taken effective action to address the unmet standards that were

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Main inspection findings

identified at the time of the first pre-registration inspection.  A curriculum policy is now available. It explains how the curriculum will meet the needs of pupils with EHC plans and pupils who speak English as an additional language. First aid and risk assessment policies promote the health and well-being of the pupils. Information and policies that are a requirement of the independent school standards are now available on the school website. The complaints policy has been amended and the school’s accessibility plan meets with requirements.  The proprietor and headteacher are experienced school leaders. They are currently leading an alternative provision on the proposed school’s premises. They have a thorough understanding of the needs of the pupils who will attend the proposed school.  The proprietor has an ambitious improvement plan. Leaders are determined that their provision will positively influence the life chances of the pupils in their care.

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Main inspection findings

 The ethos of the school promotes the nurture and well-being of the pupils. Safeguarding arrangements are in place to keep pupils safe.  The proprietor has ensured that these standards are likely to be met. Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010  Since the first pre-registration inspection the proprietor has included more specific targets and timescales to the accessibility plan. The plan outlines how access will be improved to the curriculum, the physical environment and to written materials for pupils with a disability.  The proprietor has ensured that the statutory requirements of The Equality Act 2010 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) £77.50 to £82.50 per day

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Proposed school details

Website www.coretraininganddevelopment.co.uk

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Proposed school details

Email address info@coretraininganddevelopment.org

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Proposed school details

Date of previous standard inspection Not applicable

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recommendation

Age range of pupils Not applicable 8 to 16 8 to 16 Number of pupils on the school roll Not applicable 35 35

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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 20

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of part-time pupils Not applicable 15

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School’s current position School’s proposal

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

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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 20

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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 Not known

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of full-time equivalent teaching staff Not applicable 10

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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 10

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Information about this proposed school

 The proposed school is situated on an industrial estate on the outskirts of Leeds city centre.  The proprietor currently runs an eight to 16 years alternative education provision with the same name on the school site. This provision will be incorporated into the independent school when it opens.  The proposed school intends to provide education for pupils with social, emotional and mental health needs, pupils with autism spectrum disorder and pupils with attention deficit disorder. Some pupils may have an EHC plan.  The proposed school does not have any religious character. ◼ The proposed school does not intend to use any alternative provision.

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Information about this inspection

 This pre-registration inspection was commissioned by the Department for Education. The purpose of the inspection was to determine if the school is likely to meet the independent school standards prior to opening as a registered school. It was the school’s second pre-registration inspection. The first pre-registration inspection took place on 21 October 2021.  The inspection was conducted with two days’ notice.  The proposed school is currently operating as an alternative provider. There are two key stage 3 pupils and one key stage 4 pupil attending.  The inspector met with the proprietor, the headteacher and staff and pupils in the alternative provision.  The inspector reviewed documents and policies associated with the independent school standards. The inspector toured the premises, accompanied by the proprietor and the headteacher. Documents and policies relating to the school’s safeguarding procedures were reviewed.

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Inspection team

Suzette Garland-Grimes, lead inspector Ofsted 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

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.

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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 .

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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.

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Inspection team

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Inspection team

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Inspection team

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

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