Central Primary School

School pre-registration inspection report

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Central Primary School 235 Ashfield Road, Rochdale OL11 1QH

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Main inspection findings

Part 1. Quality of education provided Paragraphs2, 2(1)–2(1)(b)(ii), 2(2)–2(2)(e)(iii), 2(2)(h), 2(2)(i), 2A(1), 2A(1)(b), 2A(1)(d)-2A(1)(g), 2A(2), 2A(3)  The proprietor has written an appropriate curriculum policy. Pupils will study a suitably broad range of subjects based on the national curriculum. Schemes of work are in place that specify what the school intends pupils to learn lesson by lesson in each subject. These subjects will include science, history and geography. They will also include art, design and technology and physical education (PE).  The proprietor intends for the school to offer a secular curriculum which will be underpinned by an Islamic faith ethos. The curriculum plans show how the faith element will be woven throughout the different curriculum subjects. In addition, religious education will be taught as a discrete subject and will incorporate knowledge about faiths other than Islam.

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Main inspection findings

 There is a suitable emphasis on reading, writing and mathematics in the curriculum. Leaders have given careful thought to the teaching of early reading. For example, a range of resources are in place to support the teaching of phonics through a validated scheme.  Pupils’ personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) education will be timetabled weekly. The intended PSHE education curriculum covers a wide range of topics that pay regard to the protected characteristics, as set out in the Equality Act 2010. This curriculum also includes relationships and sex education (RSE) and health education.  The proprietor has taken the relevant statutory guidance into consideration when planning the curriculum for RSE. Leaders are mindful of the potential challenge of teaching all of the content required by law within an Islamic faith context. Plans are in place for extensive consultation with parents and carers. This is intended to allay any

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Main inspection findings

concerns within the community. Leaders are determined to offer pupils their full entitlement to RSE and health education. Paragraph 3, 3(a)-3(j)  The proprietor has already appointed some experienced staff to deliver the curriculum. It is in the process of recruiting others. Leaders have a clear idea of the calibre and expertise that they are looking for in their new teachers and other staff.  Templates have been created for short-term teaching plans. Leaders will expect teachers to match their subject teaching methods to the needs of the pupils.  The school is well resourced, with a range of appropriate educational books and equipment that will be appealing to the proposed age range of pupils. Pupils will have access to computers. Interactive whiteboards are installed in all classrooms.  At the time of the inspection, several classrooms were unfurnished. The proprietor was able to provide assurance to inspectors that suitable furniture is currently in

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Main inspection findings

storage and awaiting installation. This work can be completed quickly if the proposed school opens. In the classrooms where this work has already taken place, the furniture is of a high quality.  The proprietor and leaders are committed to providing a good-quality education for pupils. Their knowledge, skills and experience will enable them to guide and support teachers, so they can provide a suitable quality of education when the school opens. Paragraph 4  Leaders have a suitable assessment policy in place.  The school will assess pupils’ academic starting points thoroughly when they join the school. Leaders anticipate that this will include pupils who transfer from other schools as well as pupils who have been previously home-educated.  The assessment policy shows that there will be ongoing assessments of pupils’ progress and attainment. Leaders have set out how the information from these assessments will be communicated to parents on a regular basis. Teachers will also

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Main inspection findings

use these assessments to inform their teaching.  Pupils will work towards national end of key stage assessments. Leaders have suitable experience of working within these national frameworks.  The independent school standards (‘the 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)(vii), 5(c), 5(d)–5(d)(iii)  The school’s curriculum emphasises the contribution that each subject will make to pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural (SMSC) education. Curriculum plans also show that the active promotion of fundamental British values will be an important part of the school’s work. This includes values such as tolerance and respect, together with the development of pupils’ knowledge and understanding of being a British citizen.  The proposed curriculum also shows how pupils will learn about different faiths,

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Main inspection findings

cultures and religions.  A range of policies, such as the behaviour and anti-bullying policies, show leaders’ intentions for pupils to learn about mutual respect and tolerance of others. These policies refer to the teaching of, and respect for, the protected characteristics, as set out in the Equality Act 2010.  Leaders’ plans set out how pupils will learn about opposing views in a balanced way.  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 and leaders have paid careful attention to the current statutory guidance for safeguarding pupils. A suitable and up-to-date policy is in place. Leaders have introduced all the necessary arrangements to keep pupils safe and to promote their welfare at the school.  The headteacher is appropriately trained to be the designated safeguarding lead (DSL). It is also intended that other senior staff will also be trained to DSL level. In

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Main inspection findings

addition, all new staff will receive appropriate induction, safeguarding training and regular updates on areas such as radicalisation and extremism, sexual exploitation, and e-safety. Paragraphs 9, 9(a)-9(c), 10  The proprietor has detailed behaviour and exclusion policies in place. There is also an appropriate anti-bullying policy. Any incidents of poor behaviour will be recorded. Leaders intend to cross-reference these with other concerns so that they can gain a full picture of an individual pupil and respond quickly to any needs that arise. The policy includes appropriate and proportionate sanctions. Paragraphs 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 16(a)-16(b)  The policies about safety currently available are adapted from those developed in other schools. The match of some details to this school has not been considered carefully enough. For example, some aspects of the health and safety policy are unlikely to be relevant in this school. In addition, the stated locations of first-aid

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Main inspection findings

equipment do not match this school’s layout. This means that these polices cannot be properly implemented in their current form.  The proprietor could not provide evidence of water and electrical safety checks being carried out by suitably qualified contractors. Consequently, the health, safety and welfare of pupils and staff cannot be assured.  The proprietor has not ensured compliance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. For instance, a suitable fire-risk audit has not been carried out on the proposed school premises. The document shared with inspector did not match the layout of the school building.  The school’s projected staffing levels are unlikely to be sufficient to provide adequate supervision for pupils if the school opens to its maximum proposed capacity.  Some of the risk assessments that the proprietor provided to the inspector did not sufficiently identify potential risks to pupils at this school. Nor did they consider how

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Main inspection findings

these risks might be reduced. Paragraph 15  The information that leaders propose to collect about pupils when they are enrolled is suitable to meet the requirements for an admissions register. The proprietor has established appropriate systems to record pupils’ attendance and to monitor absence effectively.  The proprietor has not ensured that all of 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 18(2), 18(2)(a) to 18(2)(e), 18(3), 19(2), 19(2)(a) to 19(2)(d)(ii), 19(3), 20(6), 20(6)(a) to 20(6)(c), 21(1), 21(2), 21(3), 21(3)(a), 21(3)(b), 21(5), 21(5)(a), 21(5)(c), 21(6)  An electronic single central register (SCR) is in place. It is well organised and enables leaders to record the essential checks made as part of the recruitment process. All of the required checks have been completed for the staff who have already been

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Main inspection findings

appointed, including the members of the proprietor body.  The proprietor understands its responsibility to seek the necessary assurances relating to overseas background checks. It understands the requirement to complete the required pre-employment checks on staff before they begin working at the school.  Leaders have completed relevant safeguarding training, including safer recruitment.  Leaders do not intend to employ agency staff. Nor do they intend to engage volunteers. Nevertheless, leaders are clear about their responsibility to check the suitability of such people if this does occur. The SCR has been set up to record these checks should they be required.  The standards in this part are likely to be met if the proposed school opens. Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools Paragraphs 23(1), 23(1)(a) to 23(1)(c), 24(1), 24(1)(a) to 24(1)(c), 26, 27, 27(a), 27(b), 28(1), 28(1)(a) to 28(1)(d), 28(2), 28(2)(a), 28(2)(b)

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Main inspection findings

 The premises are generally refurbished to a high standard. All spaces are clean and free of clutter. Classrooms are well lit. They have suitable acoustics as well as heating and cooling systems. There is sufficient external lighting so that pupils, staff and visitors can safely enter and leave the premises in the hours of darkness.  There are suitable toilet and washing facilities. All toilets are located in cubicles that can be locked from the inside. Hot water is set at a safe temperature. Pupils will have access to drinking-water during the school day. This is clearly labelled as such, and in a separate location to the toilets.  The medical room is appropriate for the short-term care of sick and injured pupils. The room is close to a toilet and is equipped with suitable washing facilities. A bed provides pupils with a space to rest. At the start of the inspection, the medical room did not have lockable storage for medication. The proprietor rectified this during the

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Main inspection findings

inspection. Paragraph 25  The proprietor has not sufficiently ensured that some aspects of the premises are suitable for the education of young children. For example, windows on the first floor had not been fitted with restrictors. There is also potential access for pupils to a flat roof space which was not adequately protected. This compromises the welfare and safety of pupils.  The proprietor intends to offer places for up to 20 pupils in each of six classes. The size of some classrooms will not comfortably accommodate this number. At the time of the inspection, the largest classrooms were arranged with furniture suitable for 16 pupils.  At the time of the inspection, the inspector also found that one of the signed fire exits was locked and two others did not lead to a suitable place of safety. Work began to rectify these issues while the inspector was still on site. Paragraph 29(1), 29(1)(a)-29(1)(b)

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Main inspection findings

 At the time of the inspection, the school's outdoor space was not in a suitable condition. The perimeter fence was incomplete. This would allow pupils direct access to a road. Work to resurface a substantial area of the playground is incomplete. The proprietor provided the inspector with evidence that the work is due to be complete before the school’s proposed opening date. However, even with this work completed, the size of the outdoor space is not sufficient for the school’s proposed maximum number of pupils.  The proprietor has not ensured that 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)(k), 32(2)–32(2)(d), 32(3)–32(3)(g)  The website for the proposed school is well organised. It provides parents with the required policies, including the safeguarding policy. It contains contact details for the headteacher and the chair of the proprietor body.

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Main inspection findings

 The website is set up so that leaders can publish further required information once the school is open. For example, inspection reports and information about pupils’ academic performance.  Leaders have established suitable templates for regular reporting to parents about their child’s progress, attainment and emotional well-being.  The standard in this part is likely to be met if the proposed school opens. Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled Paragraph 33, 33(a)-33(k)  The school’s complaints policy meets the requirements of the standards. It sets out the process for making a complaint, both at an informal and a formal stage. The policy sets out appropriate timescales and what complainants can expect at each stage.  The complaints policy is available on the school website.  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

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Main inspection findings

Paragraph 34(1), 34(1)(a)-34(1)(c)  The proprietor has appointed leaders with wide-ranging expertise in school leadership. It has also identified well-qualified professionals to form a governing body. These governors would offer regular support and challenge to school leaders and the proprietor.  The proprietor and leaders share a clear vision for the school. They have well- considered plans in place for the education that the proposed school will provide. However, they have not considered all of the standards equally well. For example, the proprietor has not ensured that suitable checks have been carried out on the safety of the building.  Leaders have taken an approach of using tried and tested policies and other documents from other schools as starting points for policies and documents at this school. In some cases, they have not considered carefully enough whether they are suitable for, and match, the situation of this school. This means that a number of

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Main inspection findings

policies are not likely to implemented effectively. Consequently, several standards relating to pupils’ health, safety and well-being are unlikely to be met.  The standard in this part is unlikely to be met if the proposed school opens. Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010  The proprietor body has not devised a suitable accessibility plan that meets the requirements of schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010.  The plan provided to the inspector does not reflect the proposed school site.

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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

Email address ymaster@educatingexcellence.co.uk

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Proposed school details

Date of previous standard inspection Not previously inspected

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n

Age range of pupils Not applicable 5 to 11 5 to 11 Number of pupils on the school roll Not applicable 120 60

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n

Reason for inspector's recommendations  The proposed school’s classrooms could not accommodate the proposed number of pupils, furthermore the outdoor space is limited in size. The premises and accommodation are only suitable for a smaller number of pupils. Added to this, the proprietor does not have sufficient staffing in place to ensure that the proposed number of pupils could be adequately supervised.

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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 120

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School's current position School's proposal

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 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 10

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School's current position School's proposal

Number of part-time teaching staff None None

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School's current position School's proposal

Number of staff in the welfare provision Not applicable As required

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Information about this proposed school

 This proposed independent school is located in two-storey premises at 235 Ashfield Road, Rochdale OL11 1QH. This address differs from the address recorded by the school in their registration application to the Department for Education (DfE).  The school proposes to offer full-time education for up to 120 pupils from Year 1 to Year 6.  The proposed school will have an Islamic faith ethos.  The proprietor is Central Mosque Rochdale, a registered charitable company. There are seven directors. These directors intend to have oversight and governance responsibilities for the school when it opens.  A headteacher is in post.  The school does not intend to use any alternative provision for pupils.  The proprietor has appointed a governing body.

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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 registers the school.  This was the school’s first pre-registration inspection.  The inspector held discussions with the headteacher, other leaders and the chair of the proprietor body.  The inspector made a tour of the school site, both internally and externally, to check the suitability and safety of the premises.  The inspector scrutinised and evaluated a wide range of documents provided by the school, including safeguarding information, statutory policies and the proposed school curriculum.

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Inspection team

Ben Hill, lead inspector His Majesty's Inspector

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Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils

 11 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that relevant health and safety laws are complied with by the drawing up and effective implementation of a written health and safety policy.  12 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures compliance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.  13 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that first aid is administered in a timely and competent manner by the drawing up and effective implementation of a written first aid policy.  14 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that pupils are properly supervised through the appropriate deployment of school staff.  16 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that- – 16(a) the welfare of pupils at the school is safeguarded and promoted by the drawing up and effective implementation of a written risk assessment policy; and

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Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils

– 16(b) appropriate action is taken to reduce risks that are identified.

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Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

 25 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that the school premises and the accommodation and facilities provided therein are maintained to a standard such that, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of pupils are ensured.  29(1) The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that suitable outdoor space is provided in order to enable- – 29(1)(a) physical education to be provided to pupils in accordance with the school curriculum; and – 29(1)(b) pupils to play outside.

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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- – 34(1)(a) demonstrate good skills and knowledge appropriate to their role so that the independent school standards are met consistently; – 34(1)(b) fulfil their responsibilities effectively so that the independent school standards are met consistently; and – 34(1)(c) actively promote the well-being of pupils.

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Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010

 Arrangements made to fulfil duties under schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010. 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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Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010

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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Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010

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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Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010

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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Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010

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Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010

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Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010

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