Agricultural and Rural Centre

School pre-registration inspection report

p.1

Agricultural and Rural Centre 5 Quarry Road, Romiley, Stockport, Greater Manchester SK6 4BA

p.1

Main inspection findings

Part 1. Quality of education provided Paragraphs 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)  There is a curriculum policy in place that sets out the school’s expectations that pupils, including students in the sixth form, will learn an appropriately broad curriculum. Pupils will work towards a range of recognised qualifications.  The plans and schemes of work set out the key content that the proposed school intends to teach pupils within each subject across the different key stages. There are a range of suitable assessments planned to fully capture pupils’ progress and attainment, as well as their emotional development. The proposed school plans to personalise parts of the curriculum to meet pupils’ needs as set out in their education, health and care plan (EHC plan).

p.1

Main inspection findings

 The personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) education lessons will teach pupils about fundamental British values. The school has thought carefully about what will be taught and how in the PSHE education programme. There is a clear focus on respecting others and supporting pupils to understand themselves as well as those from other cultures. The PSHE education programme meets the current statutory requirements. Furthermore, the school will provide pupils, including students in the sixth form, with up-to-date, impartial careers education, information and guidance. Paragraphs 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), 2A(3)  There is a suitable relationships and sex education (RSE) policy in place. This covers all aspects of the current statutory guidance. The school plans to consult with parents and carers on the content of the RSE curriculum should the proposed school open.

p.1

Main inspection findings

Paragraphs 3, 3(a), 3(b), 3(c), 3(d), 3(e), 3(f), 3(g), 3(h), 3(i), 3(j)  Some staff have already been appointed. The school has taken care to appoint staff with the relevant expertise to teach the curriculum, manage pupils’ behaviour and understand pupils’ needs. The plans and schemes of work in place demonstrate the proposed school’s understanding of the need for regular assessment opportunities to ensure that teaching is based on pupils’ current needs and will build on pupils’ prior knowledge.  The classrooms are well equipped. The proposed school has purchased a number of resources to support pupils’ learning well. Paragraph 4  The proposed school has established a suitable assessment policy. This policy has been carefully considered to enable staff to identify pupils’ strengths and areas for development.  All of the independent school standards (the standards) in this part are likely to be met if the proposed school opens.

p.1

Main inspection findings

Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils Paragraphs 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)  There is a suitable spiritual, moral, social and cultural policy in place. The proposed school’s policies aim to support pupils to understand how to live as responsible citizens in modern Britain. The proposed school’s policies also include appropriate reference to the protected characteristics as set out in the Equality Act 2010.  The proposed school’s policies show how pupils will be taught about possible sensitive topics, for example politics, in an impartial way.  The standard in this part is likely to be met if the proposed school opens.

p.2

Main inspection findings

Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils Paragraphs 7, 7(a), 7(b)  The chair of the proprietor body, who is also the headteacher, has completed relevant safeguarding training, including safer recruitment training. Some staff will be trained to the level required for designated safeguarding leads. Also, there is a programme of useful safeguarding training planned for other staff who join the school, alongside a comprehensive induction package. This includes suitable advice and guidance regarding the proposed school’s safeguarding processes.  There is a suitable safeguarding policy in place. This is published on the proposed school’s website. Paragraphs 9, 9(a), 9(b), 9(c), 10  The proprietor has ensured that there is a suitable behaviour and anti-bullying policy in place. The behaviour policy sets out the proposed school’s appropriate approach for promoting positive behaviour, as well as how any incidents of poor behaviour will be

p.2

Main inspection findings

dealt with and recorded. Paragraphs 11, 12, 13  There is an appropriate health and safety policy in place. All aspects of the site’s health and safety are carefully maintained, and routine checks are recorded, for example electrical safety checks. The proprietor uses a qualified fire safety professional to check firefighting appliances. There are regular fire drills planned, as well as clear signage indicating emergency exits and muster points.  The proprietor has made sure that appropriate filtering arrangements are in place on electronic devices, for example monitoring software to help protect pupils when they are using the internet.  The proprietor has put a suitable first-aid policy in place. There are specific arrangements in place to reflect the potential hazards on the site. For example, first- aid equipment is available in different locations across the site for easy access. Suitably trained staff will be available to administer first aid.

p.2

Main inspection findings

Paragraph 14  The proprietor has set out an intended staffing structure that enables a suitable level of supervision for pupils, with consideration for their additional needs. The proprietor has given consideration to the layout of the school site to ensure appropriate supervision is in place for pupils across the different areas. Paragraph 15  The proprietor has suitable attendance and admissions registers in place. These will be maintained in accordance with current guidance. The school has considered how any non-attendance will be followed up to improve pupils’ rates of attendance when required. Paragraphs 16, 16(a), 16(b)  The proprietor has suitable risk assessments in place for a range of activities. These sit alongside an appropriate risk assessment policy. The proprietor has given careful thought to how risks can be mitigated, including consideration for the specific needs of pupils who may attend the proposed school.

p.3

Main inspection findings

 The 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)(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), 21(5)(c), 21(6), 21(7), 21(7)(a), 21(7)(b)  The single central record contains all of the required information about pre- employment checks for staff and members of the proprietor body. The proprietor understands the requirement to complete the required checks before staff commence

p.3

Main inspection findings

employment at the proposed school.  There is a well-thought-out programme of safeguarding training planned for new staff. This training includes appropriate consideration of the additional vulnerabilities that pupils may have.  The proprietor does not intend to use agency staff. However, the procedures that will be followed in the event of employing supply staff are appropriate and will help to ensure that these staff are suitable to work with pupils.  The standards in this part are likely to be met if the proposed school opens.

p.3

Main inspection findings

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 accommodation comprises several separate small buildings within farmland. The buildings have been maintained to a high standard. Regular maintenance cycles are in place. The accommodation includes teaching spaces, a tearoom, a toilet block, a medical room and multi-purpose spaces.  There are suitable toilet and washing facilities for pupils. Male and female toilets are separate and lockable from the inside. There is an adequate supply of hot water for handwashing. The proprietor checks that the water is set at a suitable temperature to reduce the risk of scalding.  Pupils will have access to drinking-water at all times from clearly marked taps or bottled water. Paragraphs 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

p.4

Main inspection findings

is easy access to a toilet. A bed, pillow, blanket 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. Internal and external lighting are suitable throughout the site. The acoustics in each classroom are suitable for the proposed teaching activities. Paragraphs 29(1), 29(1)(a), 29(1)(b)  The proposed school has designated outside space for pupils to play and take part in physical education (PE) lessons. Although, the school intends that PE will take place at a local leisure centre. The proprietor has checked that there are suitable washing and changing facilities for pupils to use at the leisure centre. Appropriate risk assessments are in place for when pupils will learn off site.  The standards in this part are likely to be met if the proposed school opens.

p.4

Main inspection findings

Part 6. Provision of information Paragraphs 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 proposed school has a website. This has been organised to house all relevant policies and contact details for school leaders, including the proprietor.  The school intends to provide termly and annual reports on pupils’ progress and attainment to parents.  The standard in this part is likely to be met if the proposed school opens.

p.4

Main inspection findings

Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled Paragraphs 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)  There is a clear and compliant complaints policy in place. This includes timescales, as well as who will form an appeals panel if required. The school is aware of the requirement to publish the number of complaints from the preceding year.  The standard in this part is likely to be met if the proposed school opens.

p.5

Main inspection findings

Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools Paragraphs 34(1), 34(1)(a), 34(1)(b), 34(1)(c)  The proprietor has an appropriate knowledge of the standards. Planned regular checks are likely to ensure ongoing compliance with the standards.  The proprietor has the knowledge and expertise required to ensure that pupils receive an acceptable quality of education. The proprietor promotes the well-being of pupils well.  The standard in this part is likely to be met if the proposed school opens.

p.5

Main inspection findings

Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010  The school has written a suitable accessibility plan.  The school is likely to meet the requirements of schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010.

p.5

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.6

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.7

Proposed school details

Type of school Other independent special school

p.7

Proposed school details

School status Independent special school

p.7

Proposed school details

Proprietor Agricultural and Rural Centre Community Interest Company Chair Paula Forth

p.7

Proposed school details

Annual fees (day pupils) £45,000 to £55,000

p.7

recommendation

Age range of pupils Not applicable 11 to 17 11 to 17 Number of pupils on the school roll Not applicable 30 30

p.7

School’s current position School’s proposal

Gender of pupils Not applicable Mixed Number of full-time pupils of compulsory school age Not applicable 30

p.7

School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of part-time Not applicable 0 pupils Number of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities Not applicable 30

p.7

School’s current position School’s proposal

Of which, number of pupils with an education, health and care plan Not applicable 30

p.8

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 30

p.8

School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of full-time equivalent teaching staff 2 4

p.8

School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of staff in the welfare provision 1 4

p.8

Information about this proposed school

 This proposed independent school is located at 5 Quarry Road, Romiley, Stockport, Greater Manchester, SK6 4BA.  It is proposed that the school will provide full-time education for up to 30 mixed-gender pupils, aged between 11 and 17. It is intended that the proposed school will cater for pupils who struggle with mainstream education by providing them with a small, nurturing learning environment.  The proposed school will cater for pupils with social, emotional and mental health needs and autism. It is expected that most pupils will have an EHC plan.  The proprietor is Agricultural and Rural Centre Community Interest Company. There are two directors. One of the directors is the chair of the proprietor body.  The proprietor operates an unregistered alternative provision on the same site. It intends to close this provision if the proposed school is approved to open. It does not intend to use any alternative provision for pupils at the proposed school.

p.8

Information about this inspection

 This inspection was commissioned by the Department for Education (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 proposed school’s first pre-registration inspection.  The inspector held discussions with the chair of the proprietor body.  The inspector made a tour of the school site to check the suitability of the proposed premises against the relevant standards. She also looked at a wide range of documents and policies, including those relating to the curriculum, behaviour, health and safety and safeguarding.

p.9

Inspection team

Jane Dennis, 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.9

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.10

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.10

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.10

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.10

Inspection team

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

p.10

Inspection team

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

p.10