Watermelon Independent Schools

School pre-registration inspection report

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Watermelon Independent Schools Phoenix School 2 Avenue Close, Birmingham B7 4NU

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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)(iii), 2(2)(h) to 2A(1), 2A(1)(b), 2A(1)(d) to 2A(2) and 3 to 4.  The proprietor and school leaders have thought carefully about what they want pupils to learn. They know that many will arrive having been out of education for a long period of time. Leaders have high ambition for pupils who will attend the proposed school. They have formulated a clear curriculum that details their intentions about how pupils will progressively build on their knowledge and understanding over time. This includes helping pupils build up their self-confidence and essential life skills, such as cooking.  The curriculum and schemes of work are detailed and well thought out. As all pupils will have an education, health and care (EHC) plan, the school intends to create personalised and bespoke curriculums for all pupils. These will take into account

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Main inspection findings

pupils’ special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). The schemes of work consider sensibly the likely needs of pupils with SEND.  The proposed curriculum is likely to enable pupils to develop their speaking and listening, literacy, numeracy and scientific skills and knowledge. This is because plans are clear and tailored to the likely needs of the pupils with SEND the school proposes to admit. The school knows that many pupils will arrive with low literacy levels. The reading and phonics curriculum is appropriate and, if implemented well, is likely to lead to pupils catching up and improving their literacy skills.  The school has developed a suitable plan to ensure that pupils receive impartial careers advice and guidance in key stages 3 and 4. This is proposed to include experiences of the world of work, visits to places of work, colleges, universities and guest speakers from the world of business.

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Main inspection findings

 The school has set out clearly its expectations of how pupils should behave in lessons. The behaviour policy clearly specifies the proposed procedures and strategies that staff will employ to help pupils act responsibly. This policy is likely to support pupils to have a clear understanding of what behaviours are expected of them. Additionally, leaders plan to train all staff on positive behaviour management strategies.  Leaders have created a suitable assessment framework to enable them and staff to check on what pupils know and can do. The assessment documents have been adapted to match the learning that is outlined in the schemes of work. Plans to check on the learning of individual pupils are included in lesson design. If implemented effectively, these policies are likely to provide information on how well pupils are progressing through the intended curriculum.  The personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) curriculum is underpinned by many

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Main inspection findings

policies and strategies designed to meet the needs of the pupils the school proposes to admit. Consequently, the PSHE curriculum is likely to reflect the values and ethos of the school. For example, the proprietor and leaders want all pupils to reach their full potential regardless of their personal barriers, and this is included in the PSHE programme. The school aims for pupils to become confident, independent and be well prepared for the next stage of their lives. If implemented well, these schemes are likely to equip pupils with the knowledge they need to become active citizens in modern Britain.  The curriculum documentation has clear strands about how the school proposes to encourage respect for all the different protected characteristics set out in the Equality Act 2010, including disability and sexual orientation. These have been adapted to be age and ability appropriate to meet the needs of the pupils the school wishes to

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Main inspection findings

admit.  The school’s relationships and sex education (RSE) curriculum is well organised and age appropriate. Leaders have clearly considered how staff will be trained to have the knowledge and skills they need to teach this effectively.  The independent school standards (the standards) in this part are likely to be met if the proposed school is granted permission to open.

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Main inspection findings

Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils Paragraph 5 to 5(d)(iii)  The proposed schemes and policies for the teaching of pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural (SMSC) development and PSHE education are clear and coherent. They reflect the ethos of the school as set out in the curriculum policy. The schemes are specific to this school and mirror leaders’ high ambition for pupils.  The proposed schemes of work are clear about what should be taught. Plans include the teaching of religious studies and RSE for all pupils in an age-appropriate way. For example, leaders plan to ensure that pupils visit different places of worship to gain a good understanding of different religions. If implemented effectively, these schemes are likely to ensure that staff are clear about what to teach and in what order.  The PSHE curriculum is likely to ensure that pupils will gain a good understanding of

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Main inspection findings

fundamental British values, protected characteristics and other aspects of pupils’ SMSC development.  The standards in this part are likely to be met if the school is granted permission to open.

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Main inspection findings

Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils Paragraphs 7 to 7(b) and 9 to 16(b)  The proprietor’s arrangements to safeguard and promote the welfare and safety of pupils at the school are likely to be effective. The proposed policies are fit for purpose and adhere to government guidelines.  The proprietor and leaders have created policies which are specific and unique to the school and the pupils who will attend here. This means that staff will have clear guidelines about what to do if they have concerns about a pupil. Relevant safeguarding policies clearly outline the process and procedures staff will follow and how records will be kept.  The proposed child protection and health and safety policies are clear and fit for purpose. The school refers to up-to-date guidance and demonstrates a good understanding of the statutory guidance for keeping children safe in education. If implemented, these policies are likely to ensure that staff understand their

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Main inspection findings

safeguarding duties, roles and responsibilities.  There is suitable provision for first aid on site. The school has a suitable medical room for the treatment of anyone being sick or ill at school. The school has given careful consideration to the potential needs that pupils may have. For example, it has created a sensory room for pupils to have some time out when required.  The proposed risk-assessment policy is suitable. Leaders plan to complete individual risk assessments for each pupil. Suitable risk assessments to identify potential risks to pupils and staff have been completed. For example, leaders plan to make use of the local leisure centre for pupils’ sporting activities and have considered the potential risks.  The standards in this part are likely to be met if the school is granted permission to open.

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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(1) to 19(2)(d)(ii), 19(3), 20(6) to 20(6)(c), 21(1) to 21(3)(b), 21(5) to 21(5)(a)(ii), 21(5)(c) and 21(6)  The proprietor has created a suitable single central record (SCR) template. The proprietor and leaders demonstrate the necessary knowledge and understanding to make sure that a SCR is completed accurately and appropriately.  The proprietor has made all the necessary pre-employment checks on staff prior to their appointment. The checks have been accurately recorded on the SCR. This includes checking that staff have not been prohibited from teaching. Section 128 and other necessary checks have been made to ensure managers and governors’ suitability to work at the school.  The proprietor and leaders are clear about the safeguarding checks that need to be made on supply staff. Leaders demonstrated strong knowledge of the checks required

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Main inspection findings

before they would allow anyone to work in their school.  The standards in this part are likely to be met if the school is granted permission to open.

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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(1)(b), 24(2) and 25 to 29(1)(b)  The proprietor has ensured that all classrooms have suitable acoustic conditions and lighting. Rooms are appropriate for the proposed activities. There are specialised rooms, for example a fully fitted kitchen and science lab.  Toilet facilities for pupils are suitable. They have an adequate supply of cold and hot water for pupils to use. There are shower facilities for pupils to use.  The proprietor has ensured that there is a suitable room where pupils who feel unwell can be treated or first aid can be administered.  The school plans to take all pupils to a local leisure centre for sport and physical education. Leaders are creating risk assessments to identify and mitigate any potential risks while travelling to, and using, the leisure centre.  The proposed plans for the supervision of pupils are suitable. The school is planning

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Main inspection findings

to employ additional non-teaching support staff for each class to make sure that lessons remain free of interruptions and pupils receive calm and swift support.  The school currently has a small outdoor play area which is suitable. The proprietor plans to make it more aesthetically pleasing, for example by adding a seating area and some additional fencing.  The standards in this part are likely to be met if the school is granted permission to open.

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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) and 32(2)(b)(ii) to 32(4)(c)  The school does not have a website. Leaders are finalising a prospectus which provides detailed and helpful information for prospective parents and carers. It will include the necessary information the school is required to provide.  The proprietor will share all relevant policies in relation to the school with relevant parties as required.  The proprietor plans to develop a website once the school is open and established. The proprietor plans for the website to include a range of information, including that set out in the requirements of this part of the standards.  The standards in this part are likely to be met if the school is granted permission to open. Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled Paragraph 33 to 33(k)  The proposed policy outlines the procedures that will be followed in case of a

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Main inspection findings

complaint. Leaders will aim to resolve complaints at the informal stage, but the policy explains the steps the school will take where this is not possible.  The policy includes appropriate timelines in which complaints will be dealt. It also refers to a panel hearing should a complainant remain dissatisfied.  The standards in this part are likely to be met if the school is granted permission to open.

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Main inspection findings

Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools Paragraph 34(1) to 34(1)(c)  The proprietor and leaders have a comprehensive understanding of the requirements to make sure that the standards are met continually and consistently.  The proprietor and leaders demonstrate the necessary knowledge and understanding to make sure that pupils’ SEND needs are identified, assessed and catered for.  The proprietor has given due regard to how the school will make sure pupils learn and are safe.  The proprietor and leaders have developed all required policies and made thorough plans for their implementation. These policies have been written with thought and attention to the possible needs of the pupils they plan to admit.  The standards in this part are likely to be met if the school is granted permission to open.

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Main inspection findings

Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010  The school has a suitable accessibility plan in place. This plan refers to the school’s curriculum and the physical space. It outlines the steps leaders will take to make education at the proposed school accessible to the pupils they plan to admit. Therefore, the requirements of Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010 are likely to be met.

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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

Type of school Other independent special school

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Proposed school details

School category Independent special school

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Proposed school details

Proprietor Watermelon Independent Schools Ltd

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Proposed school details

Annual fees (day pupils) £81,000 to £140,000

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recommendation

Age range of pupils 0 11 to 16 11 to 16 Number of pupils on the school roll 0 40 40

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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 40

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of part-time pupils Not applicable 0 Number of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities Not applicable 40

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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 40

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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 40

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of full-time equivalent teaching staff Not applicable 10

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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 10

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Information about this proposed school

 The proposed school is located in a renovated, three-storey building on an industrial estate on the outskirts of Birmingham city centre. It is owned by the proprietor. The school is not currently operating.  Leaders propose that the school will cater for pupils with SEND. All pupils are likely to have an EHC plan. The main needs are likely to be autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and social, emotional mental health difficulties. Most pupils will likely join the school after having experienced prolonged periods out of education.  At the time of the pre-registration inspection, the building and renovation works at the premises were not complete. Some cosmetic work needed to be finished and soft furnishings included. The inspector scrutinised plans and meeting notes to ascertain the likelihood of leaders finishing the work in time for the proposed opening in four months’ time, at the end of April 2025.

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Information about this proposed school

 The proposed school will not have any religious character.  The proposed school does not intend to use alternative provision.

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Information about this inspection

 This pre-registration inspection was commissioned by the Department for Education to determine whether or not the proposed school is likely to meet the independent school standards if it is given permission to open. This is the proposed school’s first pre-registration inspection.  The inspector conducted a tour of the premises with the headteacher and chair of governors.  The inspector reviewed a wide range of documents and policies, submitted electronically by the school.  During the onsite visit, the inspector met virtually with the proprietor. Meetings were held with the chair of governors and headteacher. The inspector discussed safeguarding and welfare arrangements as well as the school’s proposed curriculum.  The inspector reviewed some of the school’s documentation and policies together with the headteacher and the chair of governors.

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Inspection team

Bianka Zemke, 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

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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