Hilden Park

School pre-registration inspection report

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Hilden Park School Noble Tree Road, Hildenborough, Tonbridge, Kent TN11 8ND

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Main inspection findings

Part 1. Quality of education provided Paragraphs 2(1) to 2(2)(b), 2(2)(d) to 2(2)(e), 2(2)(h) to 2A(1)(b), 2A(1)(d) to 2A(2)  The school makes its academic ambition for pupils clear. Its aim is that pupils will leave school with the qualifications they need for future employment. The curriculum matches what is set out in the national curriculum, and leaders want pupils to access the same educational study as they would have in a mainstream primary or secondary school. Pupils will study a full suite of subjects that meet the independent school standards (the standards).  Within subjects, the school has identified the key knowledge pupils should learn. Leaders recognise this initial curriculum framework will likely change once pupils’ starting points and needs are established from their education, health and care plans (EHC plan). The school spans both primary and secondary phases. Curriculum planning shows how knowledge builds sequentially within a subject across all year

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Main inspection findings

groups and key stages. For example, in science, it is evident how what pupils learn in Years 3 and 4 then connects later on at key stage 3. For the key stage 4 curriculum, there will be ambitious academic and vocational options for pupils. These will include GCSEs where appropriate.  Reading will underpin the curriculum with daily, dedicated time to develop pupils’ reading fluency. Pupils will access high-quality literature within English units of work. For pupils who are still learning to read, the school will use a well-considered synthetic phonics programme. There are plans to utilise the training package that comes with the programme. Leaders have ensured pupils at the early stages of reading will access books that match the sounds they are practising.  On-site pastoral and therapy teams will complement the school’s educational work. These teams will be made up of qualified professionals, including an educational

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Main inspection findings

psychologist and speech and language therapists. Pupils will be able to access different programmes and interventions so that any educational barriers can be eased. There will be a dedicated space in the school designated for additional therapy support to be carried out.  Throughout the secondary phase, pupils will receive up-to-date and relevant careers information, education, advice and guidance. This will connect to the school’s personal development programme and enable pupils to engage with the wider workplace. Paragraphs 3 and 4  Pupils will be taught by qualified teachers with subject-specialist expertise. The school will have class sizes up to eight pupils with appropriate staff-to-pupil ratios.  A range of entry assessments will support the school’s understanding of each pupil’s educational starting points. Any gaps in pupils’ prior knowledge will be focused on so that pupils have the necessary knowledge to learn new content. Same-day extra help

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Main inspection findings

will prioritise developing pupils’ literacy and numeracy skills to help pupils keep up with curriculum expectations.  All of the standards in part 1 are likely to be met if the proposed school opens.

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Main inspection findings

Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils Paragraphs 5 to 5(d)(iii)  Pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development will be central to school life. The vision is to create a positive, inclusive and inviting learning environment. Leaders will aim to promote happiness in a nurturing environment, enabling pupils to achieve their full potential. The school plans to regularly celebrate pupils’ strengths and achievements.  There is a planned calendar of events and themed days to prepare pupils for life in modern Britain and secure their understanding of fundamental British values. The school’s curriculum for personal, social, health and economic education and religious education will teach pupils about diversity, other faiths and protected characteristics. Assemblies will involve the whole school coming together to reflect and celebrate achievements.  The personal development programme will enable pupils to go on trips, have new

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Main inspection findings

experiences and interact with the local community.  All of the standards in part 2 are likely to be met if the proposed school opens.

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Main inspection findings

Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils Paragraphs 7 to 7(b)  The proprietor body and school leaders demonstrate a strong understanding of their safeguarding duties and responsibilities. They intend to prioritise staff training and provide regular updates so that everyone is clear about how to keep pupils safe. A vigilant safeguarding culture will underpin the school’s work. The designated safeguarding team are knowledgeable and experienced in how to make referrals to children’s services.  The school’s written safeguarding policy is compliant with the government’s latest guidance and is published on the school’s website. Paragraphs 9 and 10  There is a clear written behaviour policy which outlines the school’s intended approach to managing pupils’ behaviour. Training for staff will prioritise the proprietor body’s ‘positive behaviour support’ principles. A focus on motivational rewards will be a key

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Main inspection findings

part of recognising pupils’ positive attitudes to learning and school life.  An ‘internal team around the child’ approach, involving the school’s pastoral and therapy teams, will be used by school leaders to best meet pupils’ needs. Paragraphs 11, 12, 13, 14  The central team within Witherslack Group show an excellent understanding of health and safety legislation and what is required to open a new school. These reflect well- oiled systems and procedures that meet the standards.  There is sharp oversight of all operational matters and with regard to risk management and fire safety. All required checks take place and the proposed school is compliant with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.  There is an appropriate first-aid policy in place. Staff are suitably trained to administer first aid and keep relevant records. Paragraph 15  The information on the school’s admission and attendance registers will be maintained

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Main inspection findings

in accordance with requirements of the Education (Pupil Registration) (England) Regulations 2006. There will be close analysis of pupils’ attendance and any patterns of absence that could need exploring. Paragraphs 16 to 16(b)  Comprehensive risk assessments have been written to scope the inside and outside environment. The proprietor body is highly experienced in overseeing risk.  All of the standards in part 3 are likely to be met if the proposed school opens.

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Main inspection findings

Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors Paragraphs 18(2) to 18(2)(e), 18(3), 19(2) to 19(2)(d)(ii), 19(3), 20(6) to 20(6)(c), 21(1) to 21(3)(b), 21(5) to 21(6)  The single central record contains all required information for appointed staff so far. The company’s human resources team know exactly what recruitment checks are needed, and there are robust processes for the safer recruitment of adults.  The school does not intend to use supply staff.  All of the standards in part 4 are likely to be met if the proposed school opens.

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Main inspection findings

Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools Paragraphs 23(1) to 23(1)(c), 24(1) to 24(2), 25 to 27(b), 28(1) to 29(1)(b)  Witherslack Group has completely renovated the building and outdoor space of a former independent school. It has worked diligently with the laws around maintaining a grade II listed building. The school spans three floors.  Classrooms are of a high specification with some innovative designs for specialist subject teaching spaces, for example the computing suite and food technology kitchen.  There is plenty of natural light in rooms, and all lighting and acoustics are appropriate.  All toilets are private cubicles with washbasins for individual use only. There are several showers for secondary-age pupils to use following physical activity.  A spacious medical room will cater for the short-term care of sick or injured pupils. The room is well designed and contains a washing facility. It is near to the pupil

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Main inspection findings

toilets.  Pupils will have access to acres of land surrounding the school building. Leaders have designed suitable outdoor spaces for both primary-age and secondary-age pupils. This will ensure that pupils of different ages will have spaces that will interest them and opportunities to support their physical health.  Hot meals will be served to all pupils. A large kitchen space will cater for food preparation. All required food safety, hygiene and standards requirements are in place.  All of the standards in part 5 are likely to be met if the proposed school opens.

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Main inspection findings

Part 6. Provision of information Paragraphs 32(1) to 32(1)(d), 32(1)(f) to 32(2)(b), 32(2)(b)(ii) to 32(2)(d), 32(3) to 32(4)  The school’s website sits under the overarching company’s website. It contains statutory policies and other information that is required by the standards.  Parents will be able to request paper copies of policies and documents if needed.  Reporting to parents about pupils’ progress is considered within the school’s curriculum and assessment policies and practices.  All of the standards in part 6 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 Paragraphs 33, 33(a) to 33(k)  The school’s complaints policy is published on its website and outlines clearly the process and timescales to raise a concern. Records will be kept of any complaints received and what subsequent actions the school has taken.  All of the standards in part 7 are likely to be met if the proposed school opens.

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Main inspection findings

Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools Paragraphs 34(1) to 34(1)(c)  The proprietor body is experienced in running special schools across the country. All of its other schools which have been inspected have been judged good or outstanding. The proprietor body has ensured that appointed senior leaders and staff have strong knowledge and skills to fulfil the vision for the school.  Leaders have worked diligently in setting up the proposed school with comprehensive policies and agreed procedures. The proprietor body has tight quality assurance systems to assure itself that the school would likely meet the standards.  There are clear accountability lines in the governance of the proposed school. The board of directors share an ambitious vision that pupils will succeed educationally and be well prepared for adulthood. Directors and governors will visit the school regularly during its first year of operation to check on the school’s progress and pupils’

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Main inspection findings

education and welfare.  All of the standards in part 8 are likely to be met if the proposed school opens.

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Main inspection findings

Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010  The school’s accessibility plan fulfils leaders’ duties under the Equality Act 2010. This will be available on the school’s website. It includes pupils’ access around the school site and the curriculum.

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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

Annual fees (day pupils) £90,236 to £133,232

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Proposed school details

Website www.witherslackgroup.co.uk/our- locations/our-schools/hilden-park-school Email address hilden-park@witherslackgroup.co.uk

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recommendation

Age range of pupils Not applicable 8 to 16 8 to 16 Number of pupils on the school roll Not applicable 72 72

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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 72 Number of part-time pupils Not applicable 0

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities Not applicable 72

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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 72

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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 72

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of full-time equivalent teaching staff Not applicable 16

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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 5

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Information about this proposed school

 Hilden Park School will be part of Witherslack Group which runs special schools and residential care across the UK. The chief operating officer is the chair of the proprietor body for all the schools. A regional director is allocated to a group of schools geographically and takes the role of chair of governors.  The proposed school is located in Hildenborough, near Tonbridge. The grade II listed building was formerly an independent school called Fosse Bank School which ceased operating in March 2023 and was inspected by the Independent Schools Inspectorate. The proposed school is situated in 28 acres of land and green areas.  The school intends to admit pupils in key stages 2 and 3 firstly, and will gradually extend into key stage 4. All pupils will have an EHC plan, with a diagnosis of autism and/or social, emotional and mental health needs.  The headteacher is already in post and has previously been a headteacher of another

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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 standards if it is given permission to open.  This was the school’s first pre-registration inspection.  The inspection focused on compliance with the regulatory requirements of the standards, safeguarding procedures and schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010.  The inspector held discussions with the headteacher and head of school development at Witherslack Group. He held a telephone call with the chair of the proprietor body.  The inspector visited all parts of the proposed school premises. He also looked at a wide range of documents and policies.

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Inspection team

James Broadbridge, 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

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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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 .

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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.

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Inspection team

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Inspection team

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Inspection team

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