Poppy Field School

School pre-registration inspection report

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Poppy Field School 18 Lugsdale Road, Halton, Widnes, Cheshire WA8 6DJ

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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)(d), 2(2)(d)(i), 2(2)(d)(ii), 2(2)(e), 2(2)(e)(i), 2(2)(e)(ii), 2(2)(e)(iii), 2(2)(g), 2(2)(h), 2(2)(i)  The proprietor body has prepared an appropriate curriculum policy. Leaders have designed a specialist curriculum, intended to meet the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities. Detailed schemes of work have been written for each subject. Leaders intend that these will systematically develop pupils’ knowledge and skills based on a therapeutic approach.  The curriculum includes the full range of national curriculum subjects, including English and mathematics. Leaders have also developed a cognition and learning curriculum for each key stage. Pupils will gain experience in science, modern languages, technology, human and social, and physical and creative education. At key

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Main inspection findings

stages 4 and 5, pupils can study a range of GCSE and vocational subjects.  Fundamental British values will be taught through personal, social, health and economic education and citizenship lessons. Pupils will learn about managing their feelings, staying physically and mentally healthy and about the dangers of drugs and alcohol. Respect for others, and other faiths and cultures, is planned to be taught through the curriculum.  Leaders plan to organise a range of enrichment activities, including trips and visits, to improve pupils’ self-confidence, knowledge and skills.  The proprietor body has established an appropriate careers policy. The proprietor body has arranged for an independent adviser to provide careers information and guidance to pupils. Pupils in key stages 4 and 5 will have the opportunity to access work placements with local employers. Paragraph 2A(1), 2A(1)(a), 2A(1)(b), 2A(1)(c), 2A(1)(d), 2A(1)(e), 2A(1)(f), 2A(1)(g),

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Main inspection findings

2A(2), 2A(3)  The proprietor body has a suitable policy in place for relationships and sex education (RSE). Leaders plan to consult with parents and carers about the policy and the RSE curriculum should the proposed school open. Paragraph 3, 3(a), 3(b), 3(c), 3(d), 3(e), 3(f), 3(g), 3(h), 3(i), 3(j)  The staff team has the appropriate skills and experience to plan and deliver effective learning.  Classrooms are well equipped. Leaders have purchased a number of resources, such as books, stationery, furniture and computers, to support pupils’ learning. Pupils will also have access to laptop computers and tablet devices. Paragraph 4  The proprietor body has written a suitable assessment policy. This policy suggests that the proposed assessment strategies will enable pupils to identify their strengths and areas for development. They will also provide staff with the information that they need to adapt their approaches to help pupils to succeed.

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Main inspection findings

 All of the independent school standards in this part are likely to be met if the proposed school opens. 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)  The proprietor body has developed an appropriate policy for promoting pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. Policies and schemes of work aim to enable pupils to build skills in mutual respect and tolerance. The policies also include references to all the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010. Discussions aim to address topics such as health and welfare. The scheme of work for religious education ensures pupils will learn about a wide range of religions.  Policies demonstrate a commitment to a non-partisan approach to the teaching of political views.  Leaders plan to establish a student council to promote the British value of democracy.

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Main inspection findings

 The independent school standards in this part are likely to be met if the proposed school opens. Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils Paragraph 7, 7(a), 7(b)  The proprietor body has ensured that a suitable and up-to-date safeguarding policy is in place. They have introduced all the necessary arrangements to keep pupils safe and to promote their welfare at the school. Staff have received appropriate training to cover all key aspects of safeguarding. Paragraphs 9, 9(a), 9(b), 9(c), 10  The proprietor body has ensured that the school’s behaviour policy is supported by a well-developed anti-bullying policy. These policies set out the school’s approach to rewards and sanctions, which will be used to support pupils’ positive behaviour. It is intended that any incidents of poor behaviour will be recorded appropriately. Paragraphs 11, 12, 13, 16, 16(a), 16(b)  The proprietor body has ensured that suitable policies have been prepared for all the

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Main inspection findings

required aspects of health and safety, and for fire safety. Gas and electrical safety checks on equipment in the building have been carried out. Fire exits are clearly marked and fire extinguishers are regularly serviced to ensure that they are in good condition.  The proprietor body has ensured that suitable first-aid resources are easily accessible. There are sufficient trained first aiders in the school, who have completed appropriate training.  The proprietor body has also ensured that detailed, written risk assessments are carried out within the required timescales. Leaders complete weekly and monthly checks to ensure that any risks are quickly identified.  Leaders have made arrangements to ensure that the school’s computer network has appropriate monitoring and filtering in place. Paragraph 14  The high staff-to-pupil ratio means that close supervision of pupils will be possible at breaktimes, when pupils arrive at school and when pupils leave the school premises.

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Main inspection findings

Paragraph 15  Appropriate registers for recording admissions and attendance are in place. Leaders will ensure that any pupil absences will be followed up.  All the independent school standards in this part are likely to be met if the proposed school opens. Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors Paragraphs 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(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)(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(4), 21(5), 21(5)(a), 21(5)(a)(i), 21(5)(a)(ii), 21(5)(b),

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Main inspection findings

21(5)(c), 21(6), 21(7), 21(7)(a), 21(7)(b)  There is a single central record in place, which records the required checks on appointed staff and members of the proprietor body.  The proprietor body has ensured that all the required pre-employment checks, related to the suitability of staff to work with children, have been carried out.  The proprietor body has completed all the necessary checks made on the background of members of the board and their suitability for their roles. Checks relating to section 128 of the Education and Skills Act 2008, and the prohibition from teaching checks, have been carried out.  All appropriate checks on the suitability of staff, and members of the proprietor board, are recorded on a single central record. This meets statutory requirements.  Leaders do not plan to recruit supply staff but are aware of the suitability checks needed if they were used.  All the independent school standards in this part are likely to be met if the proposed

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Main inspection findings

school opens. Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools Paragraphs 23(1), 23(1)(a), 23(1)(b), 23(1)(c), 28(1), 28(1)(a), 28(1)(b), 28(1)(c), 28(1)(d), 28(2), 28(2)(a), 28(2)(b)  The proposed school is housed over two floors in a former doctor’s surgery. The building has been refurbished by the proprietor body to a high standard. The accommodation comprises at least five teaching or breakout rooms, a number of sensory rooms, adequate toilets and shower facilities, a kitchen, a medical room, a reception area and multiple offices.  There are appropriate toilet facilities, which are lockable from the inside. All toilets facilities have hot and cold running water. Hot water does not pose a scalding risk to pupils.  Drinking water is clearly labelled and is available throughout the building in drinking taps and fountains.  There are shower facilities on the proposed school site. Facilities exist for changing in

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Main inspection findings

the accessible toilet for people who have a disability. 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 of the inspection. Paragraphs 25, 26, 27, 27(a), 27(b)  The premises are safe, secure and well maintained. The acoustic features and sound insulation, together with internal and external lighting, are suitable throughout the building. Paragraph 29(1), 29(1)(a), 29(1)(b)  The provision is sufficient for pupils to have access to a suitable outside space for play and physical education. Fencing around the grounds helps to ensure pupils’ safety. Leaders intend to use a local sports centre with private shower facilities for structured physical education lessons. Leaders have produced suitable risk assessments for these proposed activities.

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Main inspection findings

 All of the independent school standards in this part are likely to be met if the proposed school opens. 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(1)(k), 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 proprietor body has set up a school website that contains all of the required information, including the safeguarding policy.  Leaders intend to provide weekly and annual reports on pupils’ progress and attainment to parents. Systems are in place to track the income and expenditure for funds received from local authorities.  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(b), 33(c), 33(d), 33(e), 33(f), 33(g), 33(h), 33(i), 33(i)(i),

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Main inspection findings

33(i)(ii), 33(j), 33(j)(i), 33(j)(ii), 33(k)  The complaints policy is comprehensive. The policy contains all the necessary steps, as well as timelines for the effective handling of complaints. The policy is available to parents via the school’s website. Copies can be made available if requested.  All of the independent school standards in this part are likely to be met if the proposed school opens. Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools Paragraph 34(1), 34(1)(a), 34(1)(b), 34(1)(c)  The proprietor body has an appropriate understanding of the independent school standards and has plans in place to monitor compliance regularly.  Leaders and the proprietor body will bring with them a wealth of expertise and knowledge. They have experience running four similar schools, all of which have been judged good or outstanding in recent inspections.  The proprietor body and leaders have established a comprehensive suite of policies

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Main inspection findings

which provide for the welfare, health and safety of pupils. The proprietor body and leaders are also clear about how they will continue to monitor the provision so that the independent school standards are met consistently.  All of the independent school standards in this part are likely to be met if the proposed school opens. Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010

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Main inspection findings

 The accessibility plan fully reflects the statutory requirements. Statutory requirements of the early years foundation stage  The proprietor body has established a staffing structure to ensure that staff-to- children ratios are as they should be. Staff have been recruited who are suitably experienced and qualified, including in the use of paediatric first aid.  The premises include indoor and outdoor accommodation that is suited to the education of early years children.  Whole-school policies and procedures, including those for safeguarding, consider the needs of early years children and meet requirements.  All the statutory requirements for the early years 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

Type of school Other independent special school

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Proposed school details

School status Independent special school

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Proposed school details

Annual fees (day pupils) £48,000 to £78,000

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Proposed school details

Email address office@poppyfieldschool.co.uk

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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 4 to 19 4 to 19 Number of pupils on the school roll Not applicable 40 40

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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 40 Number of part-time pupils Not applicable None

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities Not applicable 40

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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 40

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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 40

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of full-time equivalent teaching staff 8 20

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of part-time teaching staff 1 None

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of staff in the welfare provision None None

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Information about this proposed school

 This proposed independent special school is located in Widnes at 18 Lugsdale Road, Halton, Widnes, Cheshire, WA8 6DJ. It is housed in a repurposed and refurbished two- storey building.  The proprietor body intends to cater for pupils with social, emotional and mental health needs. It is expected that all pupils will have an education, health and care plan.  The proprietor body does not intend to use alternative provisions.  The directors of the proprietor body are also directors of four other registered independent schools.

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Information about this inspection

 This inspection was commissioned by the Department for Education to determine if the school is likely to meet the independent school standards before opening as a registered school for 40 pupils aged four to 19.  This was the school’s first pre-registration inspection.  The inspector held discussions with the chair of the proprietor body, the executive headteacher and two directors of education.  The inspector made a tour of the school to check the suitability of the proposed premises against the relevant independent school standards. He also looked at a wide range of documents and policies, including those relating to the curriculum, behaviour, health and safety and safeguarding.

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Inspection team

Ahmed Marikar, 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 .

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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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