Elm Grange

School pre-registration inspection report

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Elm Grange Boston Road, East Heckington, Boston, Lincolnshire PE20 3QF

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Main inspection findings

Part 1. Quality of education provided Paragraphs 2, 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)(h), 2(2)(i)  Leaders have set out a clear rationale, vision and ethos for the school. They are proposing a school to meet the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). There is a strong emphasis on ensuring that pupils are helped to achieve their potential through an individualised approach to personal development and learning.  The school’s curriculum policy demonstrates that leaders intend to provide for pupils’ individual needs as many pupils will have education, health and care (EHC) plans.  Leaders have developed a curriculum overview and schemes of work for a range of subjects. These are based on the national curriculum and accredited qualifications. They provide breadth of experience in linguistic, mathematical, scientific, technological, human and social, physical and aesthetic, and creative education.

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Main inspection findings

 Leaders have developed planning that takes into consideration the ages and aptitudes of pupils whom they plan to teach. The plans include a suitable range of teaching approaches, resources and additional learning experiences.  Leaders have considered the development of pupils’ speaking, listening, literacy and numeracy skills. They have identified a specific scheme that will support pupils who are at an early stage of reading. They intend to purchase more resources and provide training for staff to support pupils with reading.  Older pupils will have the opportunity of taking functional skills, GCSE and vocational qualifications in a range of subjects, including English and mathematics. These pupils will progress to more advanced courses to meet their interests and needs, as appropriate.  Leaders have plans to deliver personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) education. This curriculum includes carefully thought-out schemes of learning for physical and

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Main inspection findings

mental health. These curriculum plans include learning that prepares pupils for life in Britain. Paragraph 2(2), 2(2)(e), 2(2)(e)(i), 2(2)(e)(ii), 2(2)(e)(iii)  Leaders intend to provide impartial careers guidance and support to prepare pupils for their move to further education or training.  The careers policy sets out the intention to provide careers lessons that include developing pupils’ understanding of the world of work and employability skills. Paragraph 2A(1), 2A(1)(b), 2A(1)(d), 2A(1)(e), 2A(1)(f), 2A(1)(g), 2A(2)  Leaders have developed a relationships and sex education policy. This is supported with planned schemes of learning that are age appropriate. Paragraphs 3, 3(a), 3(b), 3(c), 3(d), 3(e), 3(f), 3(g), 3(i), 3(j), 4  Leaders have adopted an approach to teaching that integrates learning with character development. They have planned learning activities to develop pupils’ self-confidence

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Main inspection findings

and resilience. Leaders have produced assessment and reporting procedures in readiness for the new school.  Leaders intend to use assessment information to adapt the curriculum and build pupils’ learning. Leaders intend to monitor the quality of education pupils receive.  The school is likely to meet all of the standards in this part. Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils Paragraphs 2(2), 2(2)(d), 2(2)(d)(i), 2(2)(d)(ii), 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 curriculum will include planned pastoral support and a structured PSHE programme. Curriculum plans focus on the individual needs of each pupil.  The curriculum is planned to promote pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. Leaders have policies and plans that promote respect for other people, including those with protected characteristics, as set out in the Equality Act 2010.

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Main inspection findings

These plans are based on the school’s aims, values and expectations of how others should be respected.  Leaders have plans to promote fundamental British values. They intend for pupils to understand the value of their place in, and contribution to, British society. Leaders intend pupils to be involved in a range of community-based experiences.  Leaders propose that pupils will receive a balanced presentation of views.  The school is likely to meet all of the standards in this part. Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils Paragraph 7, 7(a), 7(b)  Leaders have ensured that there are effective arrangements in place to safeguard pupils. They have produced a range of policies and procedures to help keep pupils safe. The school’s safeguarding policy reflects the most recent government guidance. There are processes in place to record safeguarding concerns and leaders’ follow-up actions.  Leaders have planned for all staff to have regular safeguarding training. This includes

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Main inspection findings

training about what to look for to identify pupils who may be at risk of harm and how to share any concerns they may have about pupils’ welfare.  Leaders intend to closely monitor pupils’ welfare so that they can identify any concerns and provide appropriate support. Paragraphs 3, 3(h), 9, 9(a), 9(b), 9(c), 10  There is a suitable behaviour policy that sets out what leaders expect of pupils and how staff will promote and manage positive behaviour. There is also an anti-bullying policy. Both policies are written for the specific needs of this intended school. Paragraphs 11, 12, 13  Leaders have put in place suitable health and safety, and first-aid policies. They demonstrate a commitment to the maintenance of health and safety. They record health and safety checks. Leaders propose to carry out regular monitoring to ensure that all staff follow the procedures contained in these policies.  There is clear signage on display around the building relating to health and fire safety.

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Main inspection findings

Emergency lighting is in place. First-aid kits are available in various locations.  Leaders have plans for staff to receive safeguarding, health and safety, first aid, and fire safety training as part of their induction when they start working at the school. Paragraphs 14, 15  Leaders have plans to make sure that staffing levels will provide appropriate supervision of pupils across the school day, including break and lunchtimes.  Leaders have plans to manage admissions and attendance information well. The admission register complies with statutory requirements. Paragraph 16, 16(a), 16(b)  Leaders have a strong understanding of their responsibilities related to management of risk. The school’s risk assessment policy stresses the importance of assessing and managing all types of risks in different situations. Leaders plan for these risk assessments to be reviewed regularly.  The school is likely to meet all of the standards in this part.

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Main inspection findings

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors Paragraphs 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(1), 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(6)  Leaders have experience, and a secure understanding, of safer recruitment procedures. The school has carried out all the necessary pre-employment checks on members of the proprietorial board, the governing body and staff who are currently employed.  Leaders do not intend to use the services of supply staff.

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Main inspection findings

 The school has a single central record that includes the full range of checks required before an individual starts working with pupils. Leaders intend to meet statutory guidance by continuing to complete all checks on future appointments.  The school is likely to meet all of the standards in this part. Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools Paragraphs 23(1), 23(1)(a), 23(1)(b), 23(1)(c), 25, 26, 27, 27(a), 27(b), 28(1), 28(1)(b), 28(1)(d), 29(1)  The proposed school occupies two buildings. Building and refurbishment work across the whole site is complete.  Leaders have created systems to monitor and maintain the premises to ensure the health, safety and welfare of pupils and staff.  The accommodation has several rooms, including a kitchen, many classrooms, a sensory room, workshops and studios. All rooms are bright and airy, with appropriate acoustics and lighting. There are several offices and a secure storage room for

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Main inspection findings

examination papers.  There are separate toilets for pupils to use. They are lockable from the inside. The disabled access toilet is also designated as a staff toilet. There are suitable handwashing facilities with hot and cold water in all toilets.  Pupils will have access to changing and showering facilities. Paragraphs 24(1), 24(1)(a), 24(1)(b), 24(2), 28(1), 28(1)(a), 28(1)(c), 28(2), 28(2)(a), 28(2)(b)  The premises include a suitably equipped medical room for the treatment of sick or injured pupils. It is close to a toilet.  Labelled drinking water is readily available. Paragraph 29(1), 29(1)(a), 29(1)(b)  The school grounds are suitably lit. There are extensive garden areas where pupils can play and socialise. There are new sports courts and an outdoor fitness circuit. The site perimeter is fenced with secure gated access.  The school is likely to meet all of the standards in this part. Part 6. Provision of information

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Main inspection findings

Paragraphs 32(1), 32(1)(a), 32(1)(b), 32(1)(c), 32(1)(f), 32(1)(g), 32(1)(h), 32(1)(i), 32(2), 32(2)(a), 32(2)(b), 32(b)(i), 32(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)  Leaders have produced a prospectus that includes the school’s aims and ethos. This is available to prospective parents and local authorities. Other available information includes the school’s address and the names and contact details of directors and the headteacher.  All policies and procedures are available in electronic and paper form, including the safeguarding policy. All required policies are available on request.  The school does not currently have a website. However, leaders intend to set up a website once the school is registered and opens.  Leaders have a suitable method for reporting to parents about pupils’ achievements. They have also established appropriate procedures to submit financial information to

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Main inspection findings

local authorities and to share EHC plans at annual review meetings with relevant agencies.  The school is likely to meet all of the standards in this part. Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled Paragraphs 32(3), 32(3)(f), 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)  Leaders have written a complaints policy that is available to parents on request. The policy sets out the process leaders will follow when investigating complaints. It includes a suitable timeframe for managing complaints. The policy outlines the various stages of the complaints procedure, including informal and informal stages. The policy explains how the outcome of a complaint will be communicated to parents, as well as how information relating to the complaint will be stored.  The school is likely to meet all of the standards in this part. Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

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Main inspection findings

Paragraph 34(1), 34(1)(a), 34(1)(b), 34(1)(c)  Leaders and members of the proprietorial board have given careful thought to the proposed school.  Leaders demonstrate the knowledge and understanding required to ensure that the independent school standards will be met securely and consistently over time.  Leaders are committed to providing a quality bespoke curriculum that is matched to pupils’ needs. There is a strong focus on providing for pupils’ personal development and well-being.  The school is likely to meet all of the standards in this part. Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010  Leaders have developed a suitable accessibility plan.  The school is likely to meet the regulation in this part.

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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

School status Independent special school

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Proposed school details

Email address admin.elmgrange@keys-group.co.uk

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Proposed school details

Date of previous standard inspection Not previously inspected

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Age range of pupils Not applicable 11-16 11-16 Number of pupils on the school roll Not applicable 60 60

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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 60

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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 60

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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 Up to 60

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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 Up to 60

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of full-time equivalent teaching staff Not applicable 15

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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 16

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Information about this proposed school

 Elm Grange is part of Keys Education Ltd.  The school proposes to cater for up to 60 pupils, aged 11 to 16 years. Most are likely to have a range of educational needs, including social, emotional and mental health difficulties, and autistic spectrum disorder.  Pupils will be supported with welfare and well-being provision as part of a broad and balanced curriculum.  The proprietor is also the proprietor of Build-a-Future Independent School. If this application for registration of Elm Grange is successful, the proprietor intends to close one of the sites that it currently uses for Build-a-Future. It will close the site at Hubbert’s Bridge, Far Dove, Kirton, Boston, Lincolnshire PE20 3QT. The proprietor intends to relocate the Year 9 and 10 pupils registered at this site to Elm Grange. This will reduce the capacity of Build-a-Future Independent School from the current 125 pupils it is currently allowed to have under its registration. The proprietor is not

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Information about this proposed school

intending to close the other Build-a-Future site at Main Street, West Ashby, Lincolnshire LN9 5PT. It intends to keep this school and site open.  The proprietor intends to build up the number of pupils on roll gradually over the next two years to reach its capacity of 60 pupils.  The school is not likely to use the services of alternative providers.

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Information about this inspection

 The inspection was commissioned to determine whether the proposed school is likely to meet the independent school standards if it is given permission to open.  This is the school’s first pre-registration inspection.  The inspector met with the headteacher. He met with the company’s regional manager and chair of governors who is also a director.  The inspector toured the school site to check on the suitability of the premises.  The inspector reviewed various documents including curriculum plans. He reviewed various policies including health and safety, complaints, risk assessments, and admissions policies. He reviewed various safeguarding documents including policies, school procedures and proposed templates to record safeguarding information. He reviewed the single central record.

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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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