Rowan Education

School pre-registration inspection report

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Rowan Education Heslam Park, Ashby Road, Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire DN16 2AG

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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)(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 has a policy in place for the curriculum. It clearly sets out what the proprietor intends for pupils to learn while they are in attendance at this school. The proprietor intends that most pupils who come to the school will be here for short periods and will then return to mainstream school. There is flexibility within the curriculum offer to enable staff to teach what pupils need most.  There are long-term plans in place to teach the subjects as required by the independent school standards. These plans show that pupils will have the opportunity to develop their literacy and numeracy skills as well as learning a curriculum that is based on the national curriculum.

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Main inspection findings

 There is a comprehensive programme for personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) education in place. It covers the requirements of the independent school standards. It will encourage pupils to respect others, including those with protected characteristics as set out in the 2010 Equality Act.  The proprietor has ensured that there is an offer for careers in place. She intends for pupils to receive independent careers advice and to take part in trips to colleges. She will invite in a range of external speakers to raise pupils’ aspirations. The proprietor intends to structure her careers provision around the Gatsby Career Benchmarks. Paragraph 2A(1), 2A(1)(a), 2A(1)(b), 2A(1)(c), 2A(1)(d), 2A(1)(e), 2A(1)(f), 2A(1)(g), 2A(2)  There is an appropriate relationships and sex education (RSE) policy in place. This is available to parents on the school website. Should a pupil join the school, RSE will be

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Main inspection findings

discussed with parents and they will be made aware of the right to opt out and what this means for their child.  Pupils are taught the majority of RSE through specific PSHE lessons. There are opportunities for further discussion during other times, such as the settling period in the morning and in other lessons.  Leaders are aware of the need to consult parents and carers further should they choose to make changes to this policy. Paragraph 3, 3(a), 3(b), 3(c), 3(d), 3(e), 3(f), 3(g), 3(h), 3(i), 3(j), 4  The schemes of work set out the knowledge and content that leaders want pupils to know. They enable pupils to acquire new knowledge and build on what they already know. Leaders intend to assess pupils when they enter the school and to take into account attainment information from the host school, if pupils are dual registered, or from the previous school, if the pupil moves fully onto this school roll.

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Main inspection findings

 Leaders have employed a qualified mathematics teacher and a qualified English teacher. The planning of lessons is overseen and led by the proprietor. Sometimes behaviour and learning support assistants do some of the teaching.  The proprietor intends that should the school open, there will be further opportunities for staff to learn from other staff in other schools. She is keen for this to happen for the sharing of good practice.  The assessment policy that is in place explains how teachers will check what pupils know and can do. There are strategies for both formative and summative assessment. The proprietor intends that these assessments, including one for reading, will identify gaps in pupils’ knowledge, which can then be filled.  Staff receive training in behaviour management from the proprietor, who is a behaviour specialist. In the classroom, staff are very calm with pupils and situations

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Main inspection findings

de-escalate quickly.  The standards in part 1 are likely to be met if the school opens.

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Main inspection findings

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 has ensured that there is a policy for pupils’ social, moral, spiritual and cultural development. There is recognition that this is where there are significant gaps for some of the pupils who will attend this school. This is because many have been out of school for a significant amount of time.  Staff consistently model the behaviour they expect from pupils in the alternative provision that is currently operating. They take every opportunity to teach right from wrong.  Pupils have the opportunity to work with older people on a Thursday every week when they attend a coffee morning at a local church. This helps them to be responsible and to understand how they can contribute positively to the lives of

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Main inspection findings

others.  Leaders intend to work with agencies such as the police to ensure that pupils have an understanding of the law. They are bringing in people from the community to exemplify different religions and cultures. There is a process in place for making checks on external speakers.  The standards in this part are likely to be met should the school open. Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils Paragraph 7, 7(a), 7(b)  The proprietor has ensured that there is a safeguarding policy in place that is compliant with the statutory guidance from the government. The policy identifies the risks that pupils may face and what staff should be alert to. Staff receive appropriate training and are aware of pupils’ vulnerabilities.  There is a clear process for passing on, monitoring and revisiting concerns. The proprietor and the designated safeguarding lead are clear about how they have created a culture where pupils know that their safety and welfare are a priority. Pupils

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Main inspection findings

are able to tell someone in the school when they are struggling.  There is a safer recruitment policy in place, which ensures the right checks are made on staff who work at the school. The policy and the application detail the requirement for two references to be sought. Paragraph 9, 9(a), 9(b), 9(c), 10  There are clear policies in place for behaviour and anti-bullying. All incidents are logged and then followed up with sanctions when appropriate. There are displays around the school that reflect the school’s position that bullying will not be tolerated here. Paragraph 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 16(a), 16(b)  The health and safety policy is comprehensive and specific to the school site. It sets out staff’s responsibilities in keeping themselves and pupils safe.  Fire signage is clear throughout the school and there are fire doors in place. Fire extinguishers have recently been serviced. The majority of the records remain with

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Main inspection findings

Heslam Rugby Club as the owners of the building. The proprietor intends for the school to have their own copies.  The first-aid policy is appropriate. Accidents are recorded in the accident book. If a pupil requires prescribed medicine, the policy covers what to do and there is a lockable box in the medical room for the safe storage of medicines.  The proprietor and the business manager have an understanding of the requirements of an admissions log. They intend to keep this electronically should the school open. They take attendance registers as they describe in their attendance policy, using appropriate codes.  There is a risk assessment policy in place. A sample of current risk assessments shows that leaders apply the policy when they construct a risk assessment. Risks are clearly identified and the right actions are taken to minimise the risks.  The standards in this part are likely to be met if the school opens.

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Main inspection findings

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors Paragraph 17, 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(2)(f), 18(3)  Checks have been made on adults who work in the school as required by the independent school standards and government guidance. Checks have been carried out prior to the person’s appointment. Where Disclosure and Barring certificates have been requested but not yet returned, the member of staff is not left unsupervised with pupils.  The proprietor is in the process of making section 128 checks on governors and the wider management team.  The proprietor is currently a sole proprietor. Paragraph 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)  There is an electronic single central record. All required checks are recorded on here.

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Main inspection findings

 The proprietor does not intend to use supply staff.  The standards in this part are likely to be met if the school opens.

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Main inspection findings

Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools Paragraph 22, 23(1), 23(1)(a), 23(1)(b), 23(1)(c), 23(2), 24(1), 24(1)(a), 24(1)(b), 24(2), 25, 26, 27, 27(a), 27(b), 28(1), 28(1)(a), 28(1)(b), 28(1)(c), 28(1)(d), 28(2), 28(2)(a), 28(2)(b)  The building has suitable washing and toilet facilities for pupils to use. There are separate facilities for boys and girls. There is a separate toilet for staff.  The school is situated in a building that belongs to Heslam Rugby Club. The school will have access to some of the grounds for breaktimes, lunchtimes and for physical education (PE) lessons. There is access to the showering and changing accommodation for pupils for PE.  The medical room is based in the girls’ toilets. There is a pull-down bed for short-term care. The lockable medicine box has a range of first-aid equipment in it.  The building is clean and on the whole well maintained. The toilets are suitable but

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Main inspection findings

could do with some refurbishment.  There are three teaching spaces in the school and an intervention room. The spaces have suitable lighting and acoustics. There are projectors in some rooms. The proprietor intends to have projectors in all rooms.  There is a water cooler that is labelled as drinking water. This is readily available to all pupils. The temperature of the hot water had been adjusted to be suitable in the boys’ toilets and, at the time of the inspection, work was scheduled to lower the temperature of the hot water in the girls’ toilets.  As an extra security measure, the proprietor is installing a fence with gated access to the school to completely separate off the entrance to the school from access to the rugby club. The materials have been ordered and the work scheduled. Paragraph 29(1), 29(1)(a), 29(1)(b)  There is ample space outside for pupils to socialise. They have access to areas of the

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Main inspection findings

rugby ground. They will be supervised at all times by staff.  There is sufficient space for pupils to be taught PE.  The standards in this part are likely to be met if the school opens.

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Main inspection findings

Part 6. Provision of information Paragraph 32(1), 32(1)(a), 32(1)(b), 32(1)(c), 32(1)(d), 32(1)(e), 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)(d), 32(3), 32(3)(a), 32(3)(b), 32(3)(c), 32(3)(d), 32(3)(e), 32(3)(f), 32(3)(g)  Leaders have ensured that all policies as required by the independent school standards are available to parents. The majority of these are available on the school’s website.  The proprietor is aware of the need to report to parents and carers about the progress and attainment of pupils via an annual written report. Pupils may not be at the school for a whole year, so the proprietor intends to report more regularly.  Leaders are aware of the need to account for their expenditure to the local authority when the local authority provides the funding for pupils.  Contact details for the proprietor and the chair of governors are on the school

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Main inspection findings

website. It is clear how they can be contacted both during term time and holidays.  The standards in this part are likely to be met if the school opens.

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Main inspection findings

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 proprietor has ensured that there is a complaints policy in place. It sets out each stage of the complaints process, allowing for complaints to be made informally at first.  The policy has clear timescales for dealing with complaints.  The standards in this part are likely to be met if the school opens.

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Main inspection findings

Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools Paragraph 34(1), 34(1)(a), 34(1)(b), 34(1)(c)  The proprietor and leaders have demonstrated that they have sufficient knowledge of the independent school standards to ensure that these are met consistently. They are passionate about supporting pupils to turn their lives around and achieve.  As the school is currently operating as an alternative provision, many of the systems, policies and procedures are already in place and will transfer over into the proposed school.  The proprietor recognises the additional challenges the school faces in ensuring pupils have an appropriate curriculum. This is because pupils will come to the school at different points throughout the year and will be at different stages with their learning. The proprietor has plans to ensure that pupils are assessed appropriately and the curriculum adapted to meet their needs.

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Main inspection findings

 Pupils’ safety and welfare and pastoral care are an absolute priority at this proposed school. The PSHE curriculum is designed to promote pupils’ well-being and to support pupils to be active members of society.  The school business manager intends to keep a regular audit of the school’s compliance with the independent school standards.  The standards in this part are likely to be met if the school opens.

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Main inspection findings

Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010  The proprietor has ensured that there is an accessibility plan in place, which will be regularly reviewed.

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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 Other independent special school

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Proposed school details

Annual fees (day pupils) £140 to £250 per day

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Proposed school details

Email address hhockaday.rowaneducation@gmail.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 11-16 10-16 10-14 Number of pupils on the school roll 0 15 15

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Gender of pupils Mixed Mixed Number of full-time pupils of compulsory school age 0 Up to 15

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities 10 Up to 15

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Of which, number of pupils with an education, health and care plan 0 Up to 15

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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 0 Up to 15

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of full-time equivalent teaching staff 5 8

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Information about this proposed school

 The school is situated in the Heslam Rugby Club at Heslam Park.  The school does not have any religious character.  The proprietor intends to cater for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities. This includes pupils with social, emotional and mental health needs, autism spectrum disorder, cognitive learning needs, speech, language and communication needs and moderate learning difficulty.

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Information about this inspection

 This is the first pre-registration inspection of the school. The inspection was commissioned by the Department for Education to determine whether the school is likely to meet the independent school standards if it opens.  The school is currently operating as an alternative provision. Some teaching was observed during the inspection.  The inspector met with the proprietor, who is also the headteacher, and with the business manager and a group of staff. She had a tour of the premises and also met with the chair of the rugby club. She spoke to pupils throughout the day.

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Inspection team

Debbie Redshaw, 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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