St Germaine-Cousin Proposed To Open

School pre-registration inspection report

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St Germaine-Cousin 41 Liverpool Road North, Maghull, Liverpool L31 2HE

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Main inspection findings

Part 1. Quality of education provided Paragraph 2(1), 2(1)(b)(ii), 2(2)–2(2)(e)(iii), 2(2)(h)–2(2)(i)  The proprietor body has written an appropriate curriculum policy that aims to provide pupils with a broad range of subjects to study. Leaders have created a prospectus for the proposed school. This prospectus, alongside the curriculum policy, outlines leaders’ vision, aims and curriculum offer clearly. The proprietor body, and leaders, intend to support pupils to develop as well-rounded, unique citizens.  Leaders have planned for pupils to study subjects that will provide them with a scientific, technological, human and social, physical, aesthetic and creative education. Leaders have started to work closely with local secondary schools and examination boards to consider the qualifications that they will provide. Leaders propose to offer pupils a range of qualifications, including GCSEs and functional skills.

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Main inspection findings

 Leaders have started to develop schemes of work for each subject. At the time of the inspection, leaders had only completed schemes of work for the autumn term. However, many schemes of work do not lay out the proposed important knowledge that leaders intend pupils to learn in sufficient detail. Additionally, some schemes of work do not logically build pupils’ knowledge, nor do they provide pupils with enough opportunities to deepen their understanding of important concepts. At times, schemes of work show the activities that pupils will complete and not the knowledge that leaders aim for them to learn. Consequently, it is unlikely that the proposed schemes of work will provide for pupils’ different aptitudes and ages adequately.  Leaders have plans in place to identify and support pupils to read with confidence and fluency. Leaders intend to work closely with pupils’ schools, and other mainstream

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Main inspection findings

settings, to deliver an approach that builds pupils’ existing reading and phonic knowledge.  Leaders’ plans for pupils’ careers education are likely to be suitable. They intend to offer pupils impartial careers education, information, advice and guidance that is personalised to pupils’ interests. This proposal will include visitors from a range of professions talking to pupils about their future careers. Paragraph 2A(1), 2A(1)(b), 2A(1)(d)–2A(3)  The personal, social and health education (PSHE) curriculum includes suitable relationships and sex education (RSE) and health education. Leaders will consult with parents and carers on the content of the RSE and health education curriculum. The PSHE and RSE and health education policies are compliant with the latest statutory guidance. A copy would be provided to parents on request. Paragraph 3(a)–3(j)  The proprietor body has employed leaders with suitable experience and knowledge to

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Main inspection findings

support vulnerable pupils and pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Leaders have also started to make useful links with local secondary schools to improve their subject knowledge. However, the proposed curriculum plans do not outline the knowledge that leaders intend pupils to learn, in a logical way, from Years 7 to 11 in sufficient detail. As a result, staff do not have the necessary guidance to enable them to deliver the curriculum well.  At the time of the inspection, leaders had established schemes of work and workbooks for the autumn term. Many aspects of the workbooks are clear and are likely to support pupils’ learning. However, leaders have not provided schemes of work and associated workbooks for the full proposed age range of 11 to 16. Consequently, the current schemes of work do not take pupils’ needs, aptitudes and prior attainments into account.  Leaders intend to produce individual support plans for pupils. These are likely to help

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Main inspection findings

support pupils’ progress in English, mathematics and speaking and listening. These plans are also likely to support staff to meet the needs of pupils with SEND more confidently.  Leaders intend to complete a range of assessments as part of transition arrangements. Leaders intend to use this information to provide support and challenge to staff in order to monitor how effectively the curriculum is helping pupils to know and remember more.  The proprietor body has invested in resources that are likely to support the effective delivery of the curriculum. For example, a range of suitable books are available to support pupils’ learning. Paragraph 3(h)–3(j)  Leaders have written a suitable behaviour policy. The policy details appropriate rewards and sanctions. Leaders propose to monitor pupils’ behaviour and record this appropriately. When required, leaders will inform parents and carers of serious incidents of misbehaviour and will liaise with external agencies as appropriate.

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Main inspection findings

Paragraph 4  Leaders have written a suitable assessment policy that explains how pupils’ learning and development will be checked regularly. Leaders propose that staff will use a range of assessment strategies to check pupils’ progress.  Parents will receive regular updates regarding their child’s progress.  The independent school standards (the standards) in this part are unlikely to be met if the proposed school opens. Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils Paragraph 5, 5(a)–5(d)  Leaders intend to offer a range of experiences to pupils. These are likely to support pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural (SMSC) development effectively. Proposed activities include visits to galleries and museums. Leaders have established a calendar of purposeful events that are likely to strengthen pupils’ SMSC development. Examples include pupils learning about a range of faiths, cultures and world issues.

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Main inspection findings

 While the design of the PSHE curriculum needs strengthening, leaders’ plans provide pupils with useful opportunities to learn about protected characteristics. This complies with the latest statutory guidance.  Leaders described a range of extra-curricular clubs that they plan to provide, for example a cookery club and a film club. These clubs are likely to support pupils’ artistic, social and academic development. The proprietor body intends to support pupils to use a local sports club to help to develop physical fitness and social skills.  Leaders intend for pupils to learn about fundamental British values. Leaders have planned assemblies and other activities to support pupils to develop an appreciation of British values. For example, leaders intend for pupils to learn about democracy when they vote for reward trips. Leaders’ plans also provide pupils with opportunities to meet members of the emergency services and to support local charities.

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Main inspection findings

Consequently, pupils are likely to develop a suitable understanding of life in modern Britain.  The standard in this part is 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 written a safeguarding policy that conforms to the latest statutory guidance from the Secretary of State.  The proprietor body proposes that all staff will complete suitable safeguarding training on appointment. Leaders have completed appropriate safeguarding training. They understand a range of indicators that may suggest that pupils are at risk of abuse or neglect. Further training has supported leaders’ understanding of a range of issues that pupils may face, including early-life trauma and the risks of radicalisation. Leaders understand the importance of accurate record-keeping and prompt escalation of concerns to statutory agencies so that pupils receive support to stay safe.

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Main inspection findings

Paragraphs 9, 9(a)–9(c), 10  The proprietor body has written an appropriate behaviour policy. This clearly identifies suitable sanctions and rewards. Leaders have established a record-keeping system that will likely allow them to monitor pupils’ behaviour and attitudes. During the inspection, leaders reported a range of suitable agencies that they would seek advice from to support pupils with their behaviour if required.  The proprietor body has developed a suitable anti-bullying policy. This policy highlights the different forms of bullying that pupils may face. Leaders have an appropriate understanding of how to supervise pupils, including when they are working online, and provide direct work with pupils to deal with any incidents of bullying quickly and effectively. Paragraphs 11, 12  The proprietor body has written a suitable health and safety policy that identifies a range of possible risks. The policy complies with the relevant guidance. The proprietor

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Main inspection findings

body proposes that issues are identified quickly and remedied effectively. A proposed schedule of regular safety checks has been established. This is likely to ensure that the health and safety policy is implemented effectively.  The proprietor body has commissioned an appropriate fire safety audit which meets the requirements of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. Firefighting equipment such as extinguishers and fire blankets have been installed. Leaders plan to conduct regular fire drills for staff and pupils. Fire doors are in good working order and are free from clutter. The proprietor body has contracted a suitably qualified professional to test the fire alarm regularly. Paragraph 13  The proprietor body has written a suitable first-aid policy. This policy clarifies how leaders intend first aid to be administered to pupils or staff. The proprietor body has ensured that staff have received suitable first-aid training. As a result, it is likely that

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Main inspection findings

the first-aid policy will be implemented effectively. Paragraph 14  The proposed number of staff is likely to ensure that pupils will be supervised appropriately throughout the school day. If required, pupils will access breaktimes and social times on a rota, or they will receive bespoke, one-to-one support and supervision. Paragraph 15  Leaders have established an attendance register that meets the requirements of the Education (Pupil Registration) Regulations 2006. Leaders will use suitable codes to complete the register daily. This is likely to help leaders to identify any concerns with pupils’ attendance and punctuality. Paragraph 16, 16(a), 16(b)  The proprietor body has written a suitable risk assessment policy. Leaders carefully consider the risks that pupils and staff may face. They have written appropriate risk assessments for educational visits and the use of a local sports centre. These are

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Main inspection findings

likely to reduce the risk of harm to pupils and staff.  The standards in this part are likely to be met if the proposed school opens. Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors Paragraphs 17, 18(2), 18(2)(a)–18(2)(e), 18(3), 19(2), 19(2)(a)–19(2)(d)(ii), 19(3), 20(6), 20(6)(a)–20(6)(c), 21(1)–21(5)(a)(ii), 21(5)(c), 21(6)  Leaders have completed suitable safer recruitment training. During the inspection, they demonstrated a secure understanding of the recruitment procedures necessary to employ staff who are appropriate to work with pupils, including those pupils with SEND.  Leaders understand the checks, such as an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check, that are required before staff work at the proposed school. These checks also include verifying staff’s identity and right to work in the UK.  Leaders have established a single central record. This is compliant. The single central

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Main inspection findings

record is stored securely on a spreadsheet. Leaders propose to monitor the single central record regularly.  Leaders reported that they would use supply staff rarely. However, they understand the checks that would be required prior to supply staff working at the proposed school.  The standards in this part are likely to be met if the proposed school opens. Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools Paragraph 25  The proposed school has several classrooms, an office, a meeting room, a kitchen and canteen area, toilets, a library, communal areas and storage rooms. The proprietor body has ensured that this accommodation is appropriate for the proposed age and needs of pupils. The proposed school is suitably furnished.  The proprietor body has checked the safety of the building. For example, a check of the electrical safety of the building has been completed by a competent person. Leaders propose to assess the site for risks regularly. They have established a

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Main inspection findings

schedule of planned checks, for example periodic safety tests on electrical equipment. Paragraphs 23, 24, 28  The proprietor body has provided adequate toilet facilities for pupils. These can be locked from the inside to provide privacy and are designed for individual use. Each toilet has a dedicated washbasin. Warm water does not pose a scalding risk to users. There is also an accessible toilet available. The accessible toilet will also be used by staff and visitors.  Leaders have suitably equipped a medical room for the short-term care of sick and injured pupils. A toilet is adjacent to the medical room. Washing facilities do not pose a risk of scalding. The room is further equipped with a suitable bed, wipeable chair and well-stocked first-aid kit.  The proprietor body has installed a shower for pupils’ use. This is located within the medical room and provides suitable washing facilities.  Leaders have provided sources of drinking-water that are clearly labelled and available

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Main inspection findings

on both floors. Pupils will be able to fill their own water bottles, or leaders will provide pupils with drinks throughout the day. Paragraphs 26, 27–27(b), 29(1)–29(1)(b)  The proposed school has a yard at the rear of the building. This space is suitable for the proposed number of pupils. The proprietor body is currently working on improving the area by installing benches and games to further enhance pupils’ breaktimes.  The premises has sufficient space for small-group physical education sessions to take place outdoors. Additional lessons will be timetabled at a local sports centre. This provides suitable changing facilities for boys and girls. Leaders have established an appropriate risk assessment that accounts for the safe travel to, and use of, the sports centre.  Acoustic and lighting conditions are suitable throughout the building. The accommodation is bright, well decorated and is likely to support pupils’ learning.

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Main inspection findings

 Leaders have ensured that there is suitable external lighting. This includes ample lighting to the front and rear of the building so that pupils, visitors and staff can enter and exit safely.  The standards in this part are likely to be met if the proposed school opens. Part 6. Provision of information Paragraph 32(1)–32(1)(c), 32(1)(f)–32(1)(i), 32(1)(k), 32(2), 32(2)(a), 32(2)(b)– 32(2)(b)(ii), 32(2)(c), 32(2)(d), 32(3)–32(3)(g)  The proprietor body has not established a website for the school. They have plans to launch a website if the proposed school opens. Leaders understand the requirements for the provision of information.  Leaders have written all the required policies. They intend to publish these policies on the website when it is launched. In the meantime, leaders will provide parents with paper copies of policies on request.  The standards in this part are likely to be met if the proposed school opens.

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Main inspection findings

Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled Paragraph 33–33(k)  The proprietor body has produced a suitable complaints policy. The policy sets out clear timescales for each stage of the process and allows for complaints to be considered informally. The policy explicitly states that a parent can be accompanied at a panel hearing if they wish. Leaders understand the importance of following the complaints policy as intended.  This policy will be made available on the school’s website. Leaders will provide a printed copy if requested.  The standard in this part is likely to be met if the proposed school opens. Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools Paragraph 34(1)–34(1)(c)  The proprietor body has identified a range of suitable ‘champions’ who will help to ensure the effective running of the school. For example, this includes well-qualified professionals with education, social care and health and safety backgrounds. This is

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Main inspection findings

likely to provide suitable oversight, support and challenge to leaders and the proprietor body.  Leaders and staff have suitable experience of working with pupils who have been disengaged from learning, including pupils with SEND. They demonstrated an appropriate understanding of strategies that can meet pupils’ differing needs. Leaders are passionate and committed to helping pupils to achieve highly. However, they have not produced sufficiently detailed curriculum plans across all subjects. Nor have they designed curriculums that logically build pupils’ knowledge. Consequently, the schemes of work are not likely to meet pupils’ ages and aptitudes effectively.  The proprietor body has written policies that are likely to ensure the welfare, health and safety of pupils, staff and visitors. For example, the safeguarding policy pays due regard to the latest statutory guidance. The proprietor body has also ensured that the

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Main inspection findings

accommodation and premises are likely to be safe and conducive to pupils’ learning and development.  Leaders have not ensured that all the standards are likely to be met consistently if the proposed school opens.  The standard in this part is unlikely to be met if the proposed school opens. Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010  Leaders are committed to ensuring compliance with schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010. The proprietor body has established a suitable accessibility plan. This proposes appropriate reasonable adjustments to help pupils, staff and visitors access the site and curriculum. The accessibility plan is likely to be compliant if the proposed school opens.

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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

Date of previous standard inspection Not previously inspected

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recommendation

Age range of pupils Not applicable 11 to 16 11 to 16 Number of pupils on the school roll None 60 Increasing to 60

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recommendation

 It will be important to increase the number of pupils on the school roll in a carefully considered way. Leaders acknowledged this during the inspection.

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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 60

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of part-time pupils Not applicable As required

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School’s current position School’s proposal

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

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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 As required

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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 As required

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of full-time equivalent teaching staff 4 6

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of part-time teaching staff None As required

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of staff in the welfare provision 2 6

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Information about this proposed school

 The proposed school is located at 41 Liverpool Road North, Maghull, Liverpool L31 2HE.  Get Information about Schools states that the school is located in St Helens local authority. This is incorrect. The school is located in Sefton. During the inspection, leaders evidenced that they had communicated this error to the Department for Education (DfE). However, at the time of the inspection, the entry on Get Information about Schools remained incorrect.  The proprietor body proposes to educate pupils aged 11 to 16. It is likely that most pupils will have SEND. Some will have an education, health and care plan. The main needs that leaders propose to cater for are social, emotional and mental health, autism and cognition and learning difficulties. Leaders propose that many pupils will be dual registered with a mainstream school.  Leaders propose that places will be commissioned by local authorities, schools or

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Information about this proposed school

parents.  The proprietor body does not intend to use alternative provision.

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Information about this inspection

 This inspection was commissioned by the DfE to determine if the school is likely to meet the standards if the DfE decides to approve the request to register this school.  This is the school’s first pre-registration inspection.  The inspector held discussions with members of the proprietor body and other leaders, including the proposed headteacher.  The inspector completed a tour of the school to check the suitability of the proposed premises against the relevant standards. The inspector considered a range of documents and policies relating to the curriculum, behaviour, safety and welfare that the proposed school will follow. The inspector checked documents relating to safeguarding, including the single central record.

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Inspection team

Adam Sproston, 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-

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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(1)(b)(i) take into account the ages, aptitudes and needs of all pupils, including those pupils with an EHC plan.

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

 3 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that the teaching at the school-

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

– 3(c) involves well planned lessons and effective teaching methods, activities and management of class time;

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

– 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 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;

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Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

– 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

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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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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