Lancashire Early Alternative Provision

School pre-registration inspection report

p.1

Robson Way, Norman House, Blackpool FY3 7PP

p.1

Main inspection findings

Part 1. Quality of education provided Paragraph 2, 2(1)–2(1)(b)(ii), 2(2), 2(2)(a)–2(2)(d)(ii), 2(2)(h), 2(2)(i)  The proprietor has prepared an appropriate curriculum policy. This outlines a sufficiently broad range of subjects for pupils to study. The details emphasise the contribution that each subject will make to pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural (SMSC) education. This approach demonstrates leaders’ intention actively to provide a flexible and personalised education for each pupil. The details also show that the active promotion of fundamental British values will lie at the core of leaders’ work. This includes values such as tolerance and respect, together with the development of pupils’ knowledge and understanding of being a British citizen.  The curriculum policy is supported by schemes of work for each subject. The schemes of work and examples of curriculum design are thorough. Leaders have thought

p.1

Main inspection findings

carefully about what they want pupils to learn during their time at the school. Curriculum design considers the specific and individual needs of pupils, some of whom may be pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).  There is suitable importance placed on speaking and listening, reading, writing and mathematics in the curriculum. Additionally, there will be an emphasis on pupils studying subjects such as science, information and communication technology, religious education, history and geography. Subjects will also include art and design and physical education (PE).  Pupils’ personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) education will be taught through timetabled lessons. Aspects of PSHE education will also be woven into the whole curriculum. The development of pupils’ life skills and also their emotional and well- being skills is considered an essential part of the curriculum by leaders. The topics to

p.1

Main inspection findings

be covered are suitably wide ranging and include all those that pay particular regard to the protected characteristics set out in the Equality Act 2010. Paragraph 2A(1), 2A(1)(a), 2A(1)(d)–2A(1)(g), 2A(2), 2A(3)  The PSHE education curriculum will include the development of pupils’ understanding of sex and relationships education and health education. Leaders have taken into consideration the relevant statutory guidance. They have drafted a policy statement and have considered how they will consult with parents and carers about the policy. They are aware that this statement will need to be placed on the school’s website. Paragraph 3, 3(a)–3(j)  The proprietor has already recruited some staff. She is in the process of recruiting other staff who will work at the school. Leaders have a clear idea of the calibre and expertise that they are looking for in their new teachers and other staff.  Templates have been created for short-term curriculum design. Leaders will ask

p.1

Main inspection findings

teachers to include the content of lessons to be taught in these templates prior to the school’s opening. Teachers will be expected to match their subject teaching methods to the needs of the pupils. The school is suitably resourced with a range of appropriate educational books and equipment that are relevant to the age range of pupils whom the school will serve.  The proprietor is committed to providing a good-quality education for pupils. The headteacher has sufficient knowledge, skills and experience to guide and support teachers, so they can provide a suitable quality of education when the school opens. Paragraph 4  Leaders have a suitable assessment policy in place.  Leaders will assess pupils’ attainment and personal needs when they start at the school. Pupils’ progress and attainment will be assessed regularly. Leaders understand the expected progression that pupils will make across each curriculum subject. They

p.2

Main inspection findings

are mindful of the likely wide range of pupils’ abilities and needs. Pupils’ progress will be communicated regularly with parents and carers and those responsible for governance. Teachers will use these assessments to inform their teaching.  Where appropriate, pupils will complete national end-of-key-stage assessments.  All of the independent school standards in this part are likely to be met if the proposed school opens.

p.2

Main inspection findings

Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils Paragraph 5, 5(a), 5(b)–5(b)(vii), 5(c), 5(d)–5(d)(iii)  Documentary evidence indicates that pupils’ SMSC development is a thread that runs throughout the curriculum for the proposed provision. Pupils’ SMSC development is central to the school’s aims, policies and plans for enrichment activities.  Aspects of SMSC development are threaded through schemes of work, showing that pupils will learn about democracy and different faiths. Enrichment activities will be offered to all pupils to ensure that they experience a diverse range of social and cultural activities and traditions. For example, plans are in place to help pupils to be involved in charity work and local community events.  Schemes of work will cover the development of pupils’ skills. These will provide an opportunity for pupils to discuss local and national events. Schemes of work will offer

p.2

Main inspection findings

pupils experiences that will give them a balance of opposing views. Pupils will be encouraged to put into practice the values that are fundamental to living in Britain.  The school’s policies include appropriate and detailed references to all the protected characteristics set out in legislation.  The independent school standards in this part are likely to be met if the proposed school opens.

p.2

Main inspection findings

Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils Paragraph 7, 7(a), 7(b)  The proprietor has paid attention to the current statutory guidance for safeguarding pupils. A suitable and up-to-date policy is in place. Leaders have introduced all the necessary arrangements to keep pupils safe and to promote their welfare at the school.  The pastoral manager and the proprietor will be the designated safeguarding leads (DSLs). It is intended that other senior staff will also be trained to DSL level. All new staff will receive appropriate induction, safeguarding training and regular updates on areas such as radicalisation and extremism, sexual exploitation, sexting and e-safety. Paragraphs 9, 9(a)–9(c), 10  The proprietor has detailed and suitable behaviour and exclusion policies in place. There is also an appropriate anti-bullying policy. Any incidents of poor behaviour will be recorded. Leaders intend to cross-reference these with any other concerns so that

p.3

Main inspection findings

they can gain a full picture of an individual pupil and respond quickly to any additional needs that arise. The policy includes appropriate and proportionate sanctions. Paragraphs 11, 12, 13, 16, 16(a), 16(b)  The proprietor has a written health and safety policy that is tailored to the premises of the proposed school. It complies with all relevant laws. Regular fire safety checks of the premises are planned. The proprietor will ensure compliance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.  The proprietor has an appropriate first-aid policy in place. It is intended that all staff will undergo first-aid training before the school opens.  A written risk assessment policy is in place. The risk assessments that have already been completed show that leaders plan to take appropriate actions to minimise risks to pupils. This includes risk assessments for the school building, staff and events and

p.3

Main inspection findings

for individual pupils.  Leaders have made appropriate arrangements to ensure that the school’s computer network has appropriate monitoring and filtering in place. This is to assure pupils’ safety when they are working online. Paragraph 14  Pupils will always be supervised, including at breaktimes, when arriving at school and on leaving the school premises. Paragraph 15  Leaders have appropriate systems in place to register pupils’ attendance and to allow them to monitor any pupils’ absences effectively. Leaders will report on attendance on a regular basis through the governance arrangements at the school.  The proprietor has published a suitable admissions policy for the school. Systems are in place to ensure that records of admissions will adhere to the Education (Pupil Registration) Regulations 2006.  All the independent school standards in this part are likely to be met if the proposed school opens.

p.3

Main inspection findings

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors Paragraphs 18(2), 18(2)(a), 18(2)(b), 18(2)(c)–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)(cc), 19(2)(a)(ii), 19(2)(b)– 19(2)(d), 19(2)(d)(i), 19(2)(d)(ii), 19(3), 20(6), 20(6)(a)–20(6)(a)(ii), 20(6)(b), 20(6)(b)(i)–20(6)(b)(iii), 20(6)(c), 21(1)–21(3), 21(3)(a), 21(3)(a)(i)–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), 21(6), 21(7)–21(7)(b)  The single central record (SCR) is in place and meets the requirements for the information it must contain. Leaders understand the need to complete all the required checks on the suitability of staff before they take up appointment.  Records relating to the proprietor are included on the school’s SCR. All of the suitability checks, including those relating to the leadership and management of a school, have also been carried out.

p.4

Main inspection findings

 The proprietor has completed appropriate training to support the appointment of suitable staff to work in a school. Some teaching staff have already been appointed. Plans to recruit additional teachers and support staff are in place. The induction documentation for new staff makes it clear that they will undergo a full suite of safeguarding, and other appropriate training, on appointment.  Leaders are aware of the procedures that they should follow in the event of employing agency staff to ensure that they are suitable to work with pupils.  Leaders do not intend to engage volunteers. However, they are clear about their responsibility for checking the suitability of volunteers who may work with pupils if this does occur.  All the independent school standards in this part are likely to be met if the proposed school opens.

p.4

Main inspection findings

Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools Paragraphs 23(1), 23(1)(a), 23(1)(b), 28(1)–28(1)(d), 28(2)–28(2)(b)  The proposed school is housed in a former residential dwelling on a small industrial estate. The good-sized, modern building has been refurbished by the proprietor to an appropriate standard. The accommodation comprises at least three teaching or breakout rooms, a communal space, a kitchen, a medical room, a reception area and a suite of offices.  There are appropriate toilet facilities. All toilets can be secured from the inside. There is running hot and cold water. The hot water is at an appropriate temperature. There are signs indicating that the water is not suitable for drinking. Pupils will have access to drinking water throughout the day. Paragraph 24(1), 24(1)(a), 24(1)(b), 24(2)  A medical room has been set aside with suitable washing facilities in the room. There is easy access to a toilet. A bed and first-aid kit were in the medical room at the time

p.4

Main inspection findings

Paragraphs 25, 26, 27, 27(a), 27(b)  The accommodation throughout is of an appropriate standard and meets all requirements for the health, safety and welfare of pupils. This includes suitable acoustics and lighting. Teaching rooms have a suitable source of natural light. The exterior and interior lighting is of an appropriate standard. Access through main doorways and gates will be via keypads and coded locks.

p.5

Main inspection findings

Paragraph 29(1), 29(1)(a), 29(1)(b)  The pupils will have access to an outdoor area that is safe. It will be an appropriate space in which pupils can play when not in lessons and for them to engage in PE activities. PE activities are regularly timetabled in accordance with the school’s curriculum requirements. Some of these sessions will be conducted at a local sports centre. Leaders will have risk assessments in place to ensure pupils’ safety when travelling to and from and when using this site.  All of the independent school standards in this part are likely to be met if the proposed school opens.

p.5

Main inspection findings

Part 6. Provision of information Paragraph 32(1)–32(1)(k), 32(2)–32(2)(d), 32(3)–32(3)(g)  The proprietor is near to completing the setting up of a school website that will contain all the required information. The proprietor is fully aware of the requirements that a school should publish on its website.  In the meantime, there is a suitable range of information available for parents and pupils when pupils join the school. A comprehensive range of policies for parents is in place, including information on admissions, behaviour, the curriculum and safeguarding. All documents will be made available for parents on request from the school office, as well as being available on the school’s website.  Leaders intend to provide termly and annual reports on pupils’ progress and attainment to parents. Reports will be detailed and provide a holistic picture of a pupil’s progress. They will also report on pupils’ personal development and emotional

p.5

Main inspection findings

health and well-being. Leaders are aware that any inspection reports and examination results need to be made available, once released.  All of the independent school standards in this part are likely to be met if the proposed school opens. Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled Paragraph 33, 33(a)–33(k)  The complaints policy is appropriate. It outlines all the required stages. It includes appropriate timescales and information about the storage and sharing of written records. The policy is detailed and it ensures transparency of the school’s intended complaint procedures.  All of the independent school standards in this part are likely to be met if the proposed school opens.

p.5

Main inspection findings

Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools Paragraph 34(1)–34(1)(c)  The proprietor has an appropriate understanding of the independent school standards and has plans in place to monitor compliance regularly.  Leaders demonstrate the knowledge required to set up and run this independent school successfully. They have experience of, and a commitment to, providing an effective quality of education for pupils. They are likely to fulfil their responsibilities to promote the well-being of pupils actively.  All of the independent school standards in this part are likely to be met if the proposed school opens.

p.6

Main inspection findings

Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010  The school’s accessibility plan fully reflects statutory requirements.

p.6

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.

p.7

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.

p.8

Proposed school details

Proprietor Lancashire Early Alternative Provision Ltd

p.8

Proposed school details

Website www.lancashirealternativeprovision.co.uk

p.8

Proposed school details

Date of previous standard inspection Not previously inspected

p.8

recommendation

Age range of pupils Not applicable 5 to 11 5 to 11 Number of pupils on the school roll Not applicable 20 20

p.9

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

p.9

School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of part-time pupils Not applicable Not known

p.9

School’s current position School’s proposal

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

p.9

School’s current position School’s proposal

Of which, number of pupils with an education, health and care plan Not applicable Not known

p.9

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

p.9

School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of full-time equivalent teaching staff Not applicable 3

p.9

School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of part-time teaching staff Not applicable 1

p.9

School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of staff in the welfare provision Not applicable 3

p.9

Information about this proposed school

 This proposed independent school is located in Blackpool. It is housed in a repurposed, modern, former house situated on a small industrial estate.  It is proposed that the school will provide full-time education for up to 20 mixed-gender pupils aged between five and 11 years. It is intended that the proposed school will cater for pupils who are struggling to cope with mainstream school but who still wish to pursue an academic education in a small, nurturing environment. Referrals will be taken from local academy trusts and Blackpool Council .  The proprietor has a second, separately registered school that operates from a different site in Blackpool. Lancashire Alternative Provision is located at Data House, 30 Mowbray Drive, Wyre, Blackpool, Lancashire FY3 7UN.  The school aims to re-engage pupils who are not suited to, or are struggling with, traditional education pathways by engaging them in personalised educational and

p.9

Information about this proposed school

vocational courses. Leaders anticipate that most pupils will have SEND. A few pupils may have an education, health and care plan.  The proprietor has a limited company called Lancashire Early Alternative Provision Limited. The proprietor is the only director. The proprietor intends to develop a body to have oversight and governance responsibilities for the school when it opens. A headteacher has already been appointed and is in post.

p.10

Information about this inspection

 This inspection was commissioned by the Department for Education to determine whether the school is likely to meet the independent school standards prior to opening as a registered school.  This was the school’s first pre-registration inspection.  The inspector held discussions with the proprietor, the headteacher and members of the teaching and curriculum teams. She also spoke to the DSL.  The inspector made a tour of the school to check the suitability of the proposed premises against the relevant independent school standards. She also looked at a wide range of documents and policies, including those relating to the curriculum, behaviour, and health and safety. She also checked documents relating to safeguarding.

p.11

Inspection team

Sue Eastwood, lead inspector His 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 .

p.11

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.

p.12

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 .

p.12

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.

p.12

Inspection team

If you would like a copy of this document in a different format, such as large print or Braille, please telephone 0300 123 1231, or email enquiries@ofsted.gov.uk . You may reuse this information (not including logos) free of charge in any format or medium, under the terms of the Open Government Licence. To view this licence, visit www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open- government-licence , write to the Information Policy Team, The National Archives, Kew, London TW9 4DU, or email: psi@nationalarchives.gsi.gov.uk .

p.12

Inspection team

Interested in our work? You can subscribe to our monthly newsletter for more information and updates: http://eepurl.com/iTrDn .

p.12

Inspection team

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

p.12