Sunflower Meadow Farm School

School pre-registration inspection report

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Sunflower Meadow Farm School Hillcrescent Farm, Birmingham Road, Birmingham, Warwickshire B46 1TG

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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(2) and 2(2)(b)  The proprietor intends for the proposed school to provide education for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). The intention is that all pupils will have an education, health and care (EHC) plan.  The proprietor has ensured that a curriculum policy and appropriate schemes of work are in place. Leaders intend to be flexible in devising an individualised approach for pupils according to their needs and taking account of their EHC plans. However, there is currently insufficient consideration placed on the varied needs of the pupils and how the curriculum will be adapted.  Leaders have not ensured that the requirements of this independent school standard are likely to be met. Paragraph 2(1)(b)(ii), 2(2)(a), 2(2)(d), 2(2)(d)(i) and 2(2)(d)(ii)  The school intends to teach a suitably broad range of subjects, supplemented by a

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Main inspection findings

range of enrichment activities across the farm site.  Leaders have ensured that the independent school standards in this part are likely to be met. Paragraph 2(2)(h) and 2(2)(i)  The planned programme for personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) education includes suitable coverage of equality, British values and relationships. Assemblies will be used to explore current affairs and leaders intend to set up a school council so that pupils can share their views on school life.  Leaders have ensured that the independent school standards in this part are likely to be met. Paragraph 2A(1)(a)  The planned programme for relationships and health education will ensure that pupils are taught in an age-appropriate way across year groups.  Leaders have ensured that the independent school standards in this part is likely to be met. Paragraph 2A(1), 2A(1)(d), 2A(1)(e), 2A(1)(f), 2A(1)(g) and 2A(2)  Leaders have not ensured that there is a relationships and sex and education (RSE)

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Main inspection findings

policy in place.  Leaders have not ensured that the requirements of this independent school standard are likely to be met. Paragraph 3(b), 3(e), 3(f), 3(g), 3(h), 3(i), 3(j) and 4  Leaders intend to appoint appropriately qualified teachers and support staff with experience in working with pupils with SEND. Staff will have a good understanding of pupils’ aptitudes and needs when preparing lessons.  The outdoor environment is extensive and includes animal enclosures, an orchard and a barn area. It is planned that the school grounds will be used in a range of creative ways to support the delivery of the curriculum.  Leaders have ensured that the independent school standards in this part are likely to be met. Paragraph 3, 3(a), 3(c) and 3(d)  The curriculum documentation that leaders have developed does not provide staff with sufficient information to plan and teach sequences of lessons in each subject to

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Main inspection findings

meet the individual needs of the pupils the school intends to cater for.  Leaders have not ensured that the requirements of this independent school standard 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) and 5(d)(iii)  Leaders intend that pupils will be taught about a range of religions, faiths and cultures. The PSHE education curriculum includes coverage of fundamental British values and all the protected characteristics, as identified in the Equality Act 2010. Pupils will be encouraged to develop tolerance, mutual respect, and appreciation of the diversity of modern society.  Leaders have ensured that the independent school standards in this part are likely to be met. Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils Paragraph 7, 7(a) and 7(b) and 32(1)(c)

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Main inspection findings

 The school’s safeguarding and child protection policy reflects the most recent statutory guidance and is available on request. It will be made available online when the proposed school launches its website.  Leaders have completed appropriate safeguarding and safer recruitment training. They are aware of their duties and the importance of establishing and maintaining a strong safeguarding culture. Leaders have an understanding of the needs and challenges their pupils are likely to present.  Leaders have ensured that the independent school standards in this part are likely to be met. Paragraph 9, 9(a), 9(b), 9(c) and 10  The proposed school’s behaviour and anti-bullying policies are likely to be suitably implemented.  Leaders will ensure that staff receive appropriate and regular training so that this policy is implemented as leaders intend.  Leaders have ensured that the independent school standards in this part are likely to

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Main inspection findings

be met. Paragraph 11, 12 and 13  A health and safety policy and other related policies are in place.  Pupils will receive any required first aid and further treatment from the first aid trained staff on site. Records will be kept of any accidents.  External experts have completed a fire risk assessment. Leaders have responded swiftly to address the small number of action points that this generated.  Leaders have ensured that the independent school standards in this part are likely to be met. Paragraph 16, 16(a) and 16(b)  The proposed school’s risk assessment policies are not sufficient. A basic risk assessment has been completed for the premises but more consideration needs to be given to the risks associated with the farm location and the range of needs that the school is proposing to cater for.  Leaders have not ensured that the requirements of this independent school standard are likely to be met.

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Main inspection findings

Paragraph 14 and 15  There are currently no pupils attending the school. The information that the proposed school plans to include on the admissions register is in line with Department for Education (DfE) guidance.  Leaders are taking account of how best to support the needs of individual pupils when determining the level of supervision that is required.  Leaders have ensured that the independent school standards in this part are likely to be met. 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), 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),

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Main inspection findings

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), 21(7)(a) and 21(7)(b)  Leaders understand the requirements for completion of suitability checks on staff. Leaders demonstrate understanding of the requirements of Part 4.  The format of the single central record contains the full range of pre-employment checks. It is stored centrally in an electronic format.  Leaders have ensured that the independent school standards in this part are likely to be met. Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools  Paragraph 23(1), 23(1)(a), 23(1)(b), 24(1), 24(1)(a), 24(1)(b), 24(2), 26, 27, 27(a), 27(b), 28(1)(a), 28(1)(b), 28(1)(c), 28(2), 28(2)(a), 28(2)(b), 29(1), 29(1)(a) and 29(1)(b)  The proposed school is located in a farm setting in extensive grounds. The

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Main inspection findings

headteacher’s private house is also in the grounds, set away from the areas that will be occupied by the proposed school.  There are two buildings which will be used as classrooms. There is suitable space for the proposed number of pupils to learn. There is also additional space for an office space and a staff room.  There are two toilets available to pupils. Both toilets are close to the medical room, which also has a hand wash basin.  There is an outdoor area that can be used for pupils to play and socialise. The area is suitably secure and well lit. Staff are keen to utilise the outdoor space and include pupils in the day-to-day running of the farm with activities such as feeding the animals.  Leaders have ensured that the independent school standards in this part are likely to be met.  Paragraph 25, 28(1) and 28(1)(d)  At present, the classrooms do not have a suitable method of heating. Whilst leaders

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Main inspection findings

have sought advice to address this, the current solution poses a trip hazard and also a potential fire risk.  Some parts of the site require some general maintenance to ensure that the site is ready to admit pupils.  The temperature of the water at the pupil toilet hand basin is not suitably regulated and at times is too hot.  Leaders have not ensured that the requirements of this independent school standard 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(2), 3 2(2)(a), 32(2)(b), 32(2)(d), 32(3), 32(3)(a), 32(3)(b), 32(3)(c), 32(3)(d), 32(3)(e), 32(3)(f) and 32(3)(g)  All policies, documents and information required for the pre-registration inspection were provided in a timely manner.  Leaders are clear about the range of information they are required to make available to pupils and parents or carers to ensure compliance with the independent school

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Main inspection findings

standards.  Twice yearly written reports will provide parents and carers with information about their children’s achievement. The reports will include information about the pupil’s progress and achievements, behaviour and attitudes to learning.  Leaders have ensured that the independent school 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) and 33(k)  The school’s complaints policy complies with statutory requirements and is available on request.  The complaints policy gives clear timescales for the management and consideration of any complaint. It includes the opportunity to consider any complaints informally in the first instance.  Leaders have ensured that the independent school standards in this part are likely to be met. Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

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Main inspection findings

Paragraph 34(1), 34(1)(a) and 34(1)(b)  Leaders have not demonstrated a clear enough understanding of the independent school standards.  Leaders have a clear rationale for why they want to register as an independent school. However, leaders were unable to demonstrate that they have a secure knowledge of how to cater for the wide and varied needs of pupils with SEND they intend to admit.  Leaders have not ensured that the requirements of this independent school standard are likely to be met. Paragraph 34(1)(c)  Leaders have thought carefully about how they will actively promote the well-being of pupils.  Leaders have ensured that this independent school standard is likely to be met. Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010  Leaders have not ensured that they have a suitable accessibility plan in place that meets the requirements of Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010.

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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

Type of school Other independent special school School status Independent special school Proprietor Wendy Marsden

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Proposed school details

Annual fees (day pupils) £45,000 to £65,000

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Proposed school details

Date of previous standard inspection Not previously inspected

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Provider already operating

Number of pupils of compulsory school age 0 Number of pupils of compulsory school age who have an education, health and care plan, or who are looked after by a local authority Total hours operating as a school per week 0

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Provider already operating

Total hours of teaching provided per week 0

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recommendation

Age range of pupils Not applicable 6 to 11 6 to 11 Number of pupils on the school roll Not applicable 20 20

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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 20

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities Not applicable 20

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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 20

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of full-time equivalent teaching staff Not applicable 2

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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 1

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Information about this proposed school

 The proposed school intends to cater for boys and girls from Year 1 to Year 6. The school will cater for pupils with social, emotional and mental health needs (SEMH). Alongside the SEMH needs identified, some children may have additional diagnoses such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorder, attachment disorders or oppositional defiance disorder.  It is expected that all pupils will have an EHC plan. Pupils will be placed in the school by local authorities.  The proposed school will not have a religious denomination.

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Information about this inspection

 This was the proposed school’s first pre-registration inspection. It was commissioned by the DfE to determine whether the proposed school is likely to meet the independent school standards if it is given permission to open.  The inspection focused on compliance with the regulatory requirements of the independent school standards, as well as safeguarding procedures and schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010.  The inspector met with the proprietor and the headteacher.  The inspector visited all parts of the proposed school premises, including outdoor areas.

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Inspection team

Emma Gater, lead inspector His Majesty’s Inspector

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

 2(1) The standard in this paragraph is met if– – 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 – 2(1)(b) the written policy, plans and schemes of work– – 2(1)(b)(i) take into account the ages, aptitudes and needs of all pupils, including those pupils with an EHC plan.  2(2) For the purposes of paragraph (2)(1)(a), the matters are– – 2(2)(b) that pupils acquire speaking, listening, literacy and numeracy skills.  2A(1) The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor– – 2A(1)(d) in making arrangements for the purposes of paragraphs (a), (b) or (c), has regard to any guidance under section 80A of the Education Act 2002 that applies in relation to the provision of education by maintained schools – 2A(1)(e) makes and keeps up to date a separate written statement of its policy with

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

regard to the provision of education as required by each of paragraphs (a) and (b) – 2A(1)(f) consults parents of registered pupils at the school before making or revising a statement under sub-paragraph (e), and – 2A(1)(g) publishes a copy of the statement on a website and provides a copy of the statement free of charge to anyone who asks for one.  2A(2) Arrangements made by the proprietor for the purposes of sub-paragraph (1)(b) must ensure that where a pupil’s parent requests that the pupil is wholly or partly excused from sex education provided as part of relationships and sex education, the pupil is so excused until the request is withdrawn, unless or to the extent that the head teacher considers that the pupil should not be so excused.  3 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that the teaching at the school– – 3(a) enables pupils to acquire new knowledge and make good progress according to

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

their ability so that they increase their understanding and develop their skills in the subjects taught – 3(c) involves well planned lessons and effective teaching methods, activities and management of class time – 3(d) shows a good understanding of the aptitudes, needs and prior attainments of the pupils, and ensures that these are taken into account in the planning of lessons.

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Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils

 16 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that– – 16(a) the welfare of pupils at the school is safeguarded and promoted by the drawing up and effective implementation of a written risk assessment policy; and – 16(b) appropriate action is taken to reduce risks that are identified.

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Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

 25 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that the school premises and the accommodation and facilities provided therein are maintained to a standard such that, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of pupils are ensured.  28(1) The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that– – 28(1)(d) the temperature of hot water at the point of use does not pose a scalding risk to users.

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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– – 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.

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Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010

 Leaders have not ensured that they have a suitable accessibility plan in place that meets the requirements of Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010. 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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Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010

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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Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010

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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Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010

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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Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010

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Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010

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Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010

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