Falcons Learning

School pre-registration inspection report

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Falcons Learning Newport Street, Goole DN14 6TL

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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)(c), 2(2)(g), 2(2)(h), 2(2)(i)  The proprietor is currently running an alternative provision (AP) on the prospective school site. It is planned that some of the pupils who attend will join the school when it is registered.  The proprietor, who is also the prospective headteacher, has put in place a curriculum which he feels meets the needs of prospective pupils. The curriculum focuses on meeting the social and emotional needs of pupils as well as some of pupils’ academic needs.  Most of the curriculum is sequenced to enable pupils to build on previous learning. The school’s special educational needs coordinator (SENCo) has also put in place a reading recovery scheme to support pupils who have gaps in their learning and are not fluent readers.  While many of the schemes of work are well written, they do not cover all areas of

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Main inspection findings

learning identified in the independent school standards. For example, work is not planned for information technology or humanities. This reduces the number of subjects offered to pupils and narrows the curriculum overall. 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)  The proprietor has made sure that pupils will have access to independent careers education. This will enable individual pupils to make appropriate and well-informed future choices. 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)  The proprietor has planned the personal, social and health education (PSHE) curriculum. Plans show that pupils will receive age-appropriate relationships and sex education. The proprietor is aware that information will need to the shared with parents when required and a notice to this effect will need to be put on the prospective school’s website.

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Main inspection findings

 The proprietor has a clear understanding of the needs of pupils with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs. Current staff have the skills and understanding to support the needs of pupils with SEMH, as evidenced by the calm atmosphere in the building at the time of the inspection.  The school plans to put in place an assessment policy to check that pupils know and remember what they are learning.  It is planned that parents will receive regular reports on the academic and emotional progress that their children are making.  The independent school standards (the standards) in this part are unlikely 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)  Leaders and the proprietor have thought carefully about the contents of the PSHE curriculum. The proposed curriculum will ensure that pupils develop an understanding

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Main inspection findings

of world issues, as well as how to become good citizens.  It is planned that pupils’ social and emotional needs will be assessed. Leaders want to prioritise pupils’ ability to develop resilience and self-respect so that they are better prepared for life after school.  Pupils will learn about tolerance and harmony with others through learning about the groups protected by the Equality Act 2010. It is planned that pupils will learn about other faiths and religions to widen their view of the diverse population within the UK and beyond. Paragraph 5(c), 5(d), 5(d)(i), 5(d)(ii), 5(d)(iii)  Leaders believe that pupils should receive a balanced presentation of views in lessons. Discussions with staff are planned to ensure they do not promote any partisan political views. Visiting speakers will be monitored closely to ensure that they present unbiased accounts to pupils.  The standards in this part are likely to be met

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Main inspection findings

Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils Paragraph 7, 7(a), 7(b)  The school’s safeguarding policy meets the latest legislative requirements and is displayed on the school’s website. It will be possible for parents to obtain further copies from the school office should they require a paper copy of the policy.  The proprietor and the SENCo have received relevant and up-to-date training in order to become the designated safeguarding lead and deputy safeguarding lead for the school.  Regular safeguarding training and updates are planned to ensure staff are kept updated on current legislation and local safeguarding issues. Paragraphs 9, 9(a), 9(b), 9(c), 10  The proprietor has put in place a behaviour policy which is bespoke to the needs of individual pupils and promotes a positive approach to helping pupils to make the right choices in their behaviour.  The proprietor is clear that excluding pupils will be a last resort. Incidents of difficult

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Main inspection findings

behaviour will be recorded. It is also planned that discussions will be held with pupils to ascertain possible triggers for the incident and ways to avoid it happening again.  The planned school is aiming to take a maximum of 24 pupils. In this small environment, individual pupils will become well known to staff and trusting relationships will help to reduce difficult behaviour.  The school’s anti-bullying policy is in place. Leaders intend to promote a climate of trust within school which encourages pupils to report incidents of bullying to staff so that appropriate action is taken to address any incidents. Paragraphs 11, 12, 13  The school’s health and safety policy was scrutinised during the inspection. It is comprehensive and identifies key issues within the building.  Regular fire drills are planned and will be recorded. The proprietor has contacted the fire brigade and has completed a fire safety audit to ensure the school’s compliance

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Main inspection findings

with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.  The proprietor has ensured that most of the proposed staff have received first-aid training. First-aid boxes are displayed. Checks show the content to be in date and adequate for basic first-aid requirements. Paragraphs 14, 15, 16, 16(a), 16(b)  The proprietor intends to increase the current number of staff before the school opens. Current staffing ratios for pupils who attend the alternative provision are high and are to be replicated in the school setting.  A system to register pupils’ attendance is in place in the alternative provision. This, it is planned, will be replicated in the proposed school. A register to record new admissions to the school is also in place and meets current requirements.  The proprietor was able to provide examples of risk assessments for both the buildings and individual pupils. These demonstrated that leaders are clear about how

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Main inspection findings

to measure risk and the actions needed to reduce it.  The standards in this part are likely to be met. 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), 20(1), 20(2), 20(3), 20(3)(a), 20(3)(a)(i), 20(3)(a)(ii), 20(3)(b), 20(3)(b)(i), 20(3)(b)(ii), 20(3)(b)(iii), 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(4), 21(5), 21(5)(a), 21(5)(a)(i), 21(5)(a)(ii), 21(5)(b), 21(5)(c)  The proprietor has put in place a single central record. This records all of the required relevant checks for the safer recruitment of staff.  Leaders have ensured that medical checks are carried out on staff. These are kept

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Main inspection findings

confidentially in staff files.  Interviews for new posts are carried out by the proprietor and senior leaders. Staff who carry out the interviews have all received safer recruitment training. This ensures the relevant recruitment checks, such as requesting two references, are carried out before new staff take up a post.  The standards in this part are likely to be met. Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools Paragraphs 22, 23(1), 23(1)(a), 23(1)(b), 23(1)(c), 23(2), 24(1)(a), 24(1)(b), 24(2), 25, 26, 27, 27(a), 27(b), 28(1)(a), 28(1)(c), 28(1)(d), 28(2), 28(2)(a), 28(2)(b)  The proprietor has ensured that there are sufficient toilets to meet pupils’ needs. Most toilets are single stalls and have a lock to prevent others from entering when in use.  There are separate toilets provided for staff and visitors, which also provide for people with disabilities.  It is planned that pupils will undertake physical education (PE) off site as well as in

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Main inspection findings

the school grounds. It is planned that pupils will shower at the off-site venue if they wish to at the end of a PE session, as well as use the newly installed on-site shower at the school.  The proprietor has ensured that a medical room is in place. However, there is no sink in the room. The proprietor plans to install a sink, but a timeline for this has not been decided.  The lighting in each room is of sufficient quality for the activities planned.  The school is situated in a portal frame building, with little acoustic insulation. During the inspection, the noise levels were high and made concentrating difficult. Pupils who attend the AP found listening to the teacher in a mathematics lesson difficult because other pupils were using woodworking tools in the adjacent room. The planned increase in pupil numbers is likely to exacerbate the problem, making learning even more difficult.  External lighting is in place which ensures sufficient illumination for safe movement of

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Main inspection findings

staff and pupils after dark. Paragraph 28(1), 28(1)(b), 29, 29(1)(a), 29(1)(b), 29(1)(c)  Hot water in the kitchen and toilet areas did not pose a scalding risk.  Drinking water is available for pupils to drink in the kitchen area. Lunch is cooked in the kitchen area by staff and pupils. Staff who carry out this task have all completed a certificate in food hygiene.  The standards in this part are unlikely 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 proposed school has a website which is accessible to parents. Relevant information, including the name, address and telephone number of the proprietor, is easily located. Other documentation such as the safeguarding policy is also accessible

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Main inspection findings

for parents.  The proprietor is aware of the need to report pupils’ attainment and progress to parents and intends to provide annual reports to parents.  The business manager already produces documents for local authorities which outline the expenditure required for each pupil. A similar document will be used for the proposed school.  The proprietor intends to publish inspection reports on the school’s website.  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)  The complaints policy is in writing and has been made available to parents on the website. It sets out clear timescales for processing a complaint. There is clear guidance on how the complaint can be considered on an informal basis.  If a parent is not satisfied with the response to a complaint, a hearing before an

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Main inspection findings

independent panel is to be arranged. Written records of the complaint will be kept confidentially and copies given to the complainant and, where needed, the person complained about.  The 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 has a clear vision for the future of the school. Through his previous work, the proprietor has gained a strong understanding of the needs of pupils with SEMH. The successful alternative provision which is currently operating on the school site is evidence of this.  The proposed school is to have a strong focus on pupils’ personal development. It is planned that pupils will receive support in managing their behaviour, help in catching up on missed learning and assistance in developing confidence and self-belief.  At the time of the inspection, not all of the independent school standards were met.

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Main inspection findings

The curriculum is not fully developed and the medical room does not have the required sink in place.  The proprietor recognises that the building acoustics are a barrier to learning and on the day of the inspection was investigating possible solutions to the problem. However, planning for this was at an early stage of development.  The standards in this part are unlikely to be met. Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010  The proprietor is aware that an accessibility policy needs to be put in place which is reviewed on a three-yearly basis.  The plan needs to outline how school leaders intend to continue to consider how to make the school more accessible to those with special educational needs and/or disabilities.

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Compliance with regulatory requirements

The school is unlikely to meet the requirements of the schedule to the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014 (‘the independent school standards’) and associated requirements, as set out in the annex of this report.

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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 stevewash@falconslearning.com

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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 11 to 19 11 to 19 Number of pupils on the school roll Not applicable 24 24

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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 24 Number of part-time pupils Not applicable 24

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities Not applicable 24

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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 24

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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 24

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of full-time equivalent teaching staff Not applicable 4

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of part-time teaching staff Not applicable 2

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of staff in the welfare provision Not applicable Not applicable

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Information about this proposed school

 The school is situated in the town of Goole in the East Riding of Yorkshire.  The proprietor currently runs an alternative education provision for pupils aged between 11 and 16, 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 SEMH needs. It is expected that most pupils will have an education, health and care plan.  The proposed school does not have any religious character.  The 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 first pre-registration inspection.  The inspection was conducted with two days’ notice.  The proposed school is currently operating as an alternative provision. There are 14 key stage 3 and key stage 4 pupils attending.  The inspector met with the proprietor.  The inspector reviewed documents and policies associated with the independent school standards. The inspector toured the premises, accompanied by the proprietor.  The inspector looked at documents and policies relating to the school’s safeguarding policy and procedures.

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Inspection team

Marian Thomas, lead inspector Ofsted Inspector

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

 2(1) The standard in this paragraph is met if-

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

– 2(1)(a) the proprietor ensures that a written policy on the curriculum, supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work, which provides for the matters specified in sub-paragraph (2) is drawn up and implemented effectively; and

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

– 2(1)(b) the written policy, plans and schemes of work.

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

 2(2) For the purposes of paragraph (2)(1)(a), the matters are-

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

– 2(2)(a) full-time supervised education for pupils of compulsory school age (construed in accordance with section 8 of the Education Act 1996), which gives pupils experience in linguistic, mathematical, scientific, technological, human and social, physical and aesthetic and creative education.

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Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

 24(1) The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that suitable accommodation is provided in order to cater for the medical and therapy needs of pupils, including-

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Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

– 24(1)(a) accommodation for the medical examination and treatment of pupils;

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Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

– 24(1)(b) accommodation for the short term care of sick and injured pupils, which includes a washing facility and is near to a toilet facility.

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Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

 24(2) The accommodation provided under sub-paragraphs (1)(a) and (b) may be used for other purposes (apart from teaching) provided it is always readily available to be used for the purposes set out in sub-paragraphs (1)(a) and (b).

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Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

 26 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that the acoustic conditions and sound insulation of each room or other space are suitable, having regard to the nature of the activities which normally take place therein.

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Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

 34(1) The standard about the quality of leadership and management is met if the proprietor ensures that persons with leadership and management responsibilities at the school-

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Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

– 34(1)(a) demonstrate good skills and knowledge appropriate to their role so that the independent school standards are met consistently; – 34(1)(b) fulfil their responsibilities effectively so that the independent school standards are met consistently. 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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Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

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Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

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Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

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Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

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Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

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Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

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