Cheshire Hall School

School pre-registration inspection report

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Cheshire Hall School Congleton Road, Cheshire, Sandbach, Cheshire CW11 4TF

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Main inspection findings

Part 1. Quality of education provided Paragraphs 2(1), 2(1)(a), 2(1)(b) to 2(1)(b)(ii), 2(2) to 2(2)(e)(iii), 2(2)(h), 2(2)(i)  The proprietor has written an appropriate curriculum policy, which clearly explains the proposed school’s aims for the curriculum. The policy outlines a sufficiently broad range of subjects for pupils to study in key stages 2, 3 and 4. The curriculum policies outline how the curriculum will contribute to pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural (SMSC) education and take into account the needs and previous experiences of pupils.  The curriculum policy is supported by appropriate schemes of work. The proposed school has thought carefully about what pupils should learn and what prior knowledge they will need to be successful in new learning. It intends to adapt the schemes of work to meet the individual needs of pupils, who will all have special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) and an education, health and care (EHC) plan.

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Main inspection findings

 The proposed school places sufficient importance on the teaching of reading, writing, speaking and listening, and mathematics. There is allocated reading time every day and a systematic and synthetic phonics programme for those pupils who have gaps in their phonics knowledge. Subjects such as science, computing, humanities and physical education (PE) are also given prominence on the school’s timetable. Pupils will study a range of other subjects that will provide them with experiences in technological and aesthetic and creative education.  Additionally, pupils will have the opportunity to gain accreditation and qualifications in a range of academic and vocational courses, such as English, mathematics, science, computing, history, geography, PE and cooking.  Pupils’ personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) education will be taught through timetabled lessons. There is an appropriate scheme of work for PSHE education which

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Main inspection findings

sets out the important knowledge that pupils will acquire in key stages 2, 3 and 4. There is a suitable emphasis on citizenship, working together, physical and mental health, well-being and money. The curriculum encourages pupils’ respect for other people, including those with the protected characteristics, as set out in the Equality Act 2010.  There are suitable arrangements in place for pupils in key stages 3 and 4 to receive careers education. The proposed school intends to provide impartial careers information, advice and guidance through the PSHE education curriculum and with the support of external agencies. Additionally, the proprietor has an established ‘futures programme’, which includes a wide network of employers who will provide work experience as well as visits to employers and local businesses. These activities will be tailored to the individual needs and interests of pupils. Paragraphs 2A(1), 2A(1)(a) to (b), 2A(1)(d) to 2A(3)

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Main inspection findings

 The PSHE curriculum will provide pupils with age-appropriate relationships and sex education. The proposed school’s policy complies with the relevant statutory guidance. The proposed school has considered how it will consult with parents and carers about the policy. It is also aware of its duty to ensure that the policy is shared with parents. Paragraphs 3(a) to 3(g)  The proprietor is committed to ensuring that teachers have the appropriate subject knowledge and expertise to teach the curriculum well. For example, it has recruited experienced teachers from mainstream and independent schools with a broad spectrum of curriculum and SEND knowledge. The proprietor also intends to further support staff’s professional development by providing training, conferences, forums and opportunities to work with other schools to help teachers to deliver the curriculum effectively.  The proposed school has developed curriculum plans to ensure that they detail the

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Main inspection findings

important knowledge to teach and when to teach it. Teachers will adapt these plans in response to the needs, aptitudes and prior knowledge of pupils. Teaching spaces are well resourced with a range of appropriate and high-quality equipment and materials.  The proprietor has a robust system for quality assurance visits and activities to ensure that pupils increase and develop their understanding, knowledge and skills across the curriculum. Information from the proprietor’s quality assurance checks will inform future professional development and training for staff.  The proposed school has a clear framework for teachers to carry out assessments to establish pupils’ starting points when pupils join the proposed school. Initial and ongoing assessments will inform what and how pupils are taught. Teachers will check that pupils are learning the intended curriculum regularly. Paragraphs 3(h) to 3(j)  There is a suitable policy in place setting out the proposed school’s expectations of

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Main inspection findings

pupils’ behaviour. The policy is appropriate to the needs of pupils in the proposed school and recognises the specific challenges that pupils who have been disengaged from education for some time may face.  The proposed school has ensured that the curriculum does not undermine fundamental British values and does not discriminate against pupils, contrary to part 6 of the Equality Act 2010. For example, pupils will learn about the protected characteristics and how to be respectful and tolerant of people who may be different to themselves. Paragraph 4  The proprietor has written a suitable assessment policy. This policy outlines how pupils’ performance will be monitored and shared with parents. The proposed school intends to report to parents every term and provide them with information about their child’s progress and attainment.  All of the independent school standards (the standards) in this part are likely to be

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Main inspection findings

Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils Paragraphs 5, 5(a) to 5(d)(iii)  The proposed school has given consideration to pupils’ SMSC development through the PSHE curriculum and the wider curriculum. Pupils will learn about fundamental British values, such as the rule of law, individual liberty and democracy. Additionally, they will learn about the protected characteristics as set out in the Equality Act 2010. Pupils will also learn about different cultures and how to be respectful and tolerant of people who have different views and beliefs to their own.  Pupils will learn how to keep themselves safe and mentally and emotionally well. For example, they will be taught about drugs and alcohol, healthy relationships, knife crime and online safety. The proposed school intends that this will help pupils to make responsible and safe choices in their future lives. Additionally, the proposed school

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Main inspection findings

intends to invite visitors and speakers into school, such as the police, to offer advice and guidance to pupils. Pupils will also have access to in-house counselling and therapy to provide individual support and guidance for their social and moral development.  Weekly enrichment activities will provide an opportunity for pupils to develop and nurture talents and interests. Additionally, the proposed school’s personal development programme includes life skills, leisure opportunities, outdoor education, cultural and well-being experiences. These wide-ranging activities will give pupils the opportunity to develop self-esteem and confidence and to be active and responsible citizens.  The standards in this part 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, 7(a), 7(b)  The proprietor has put in place the necessary arrangements to safeguard pupils and to promote their welfare at the proposed school. There is a suitable and up-to-date safeguarding policy in place, which gives consideration to current statutory guidance.  The proposed school has appointed a full-time designated safeguarding lead. The headteacher, who deputises for the designated safeguarding lead, is trained to the same level. Additionally, there is a regional safeguarding lead, who will provide further support and guidance to the proposed school. Leaders who are responsible for safeguarding have appropriate knowledge, expertise and experience in this area.  The proprietor has ensured that all new staff will receive an appropriate induction into the school, including suitable safeguarding training. Staff will receive regular updates

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Main inspection findings

on local and national safeguarding issues. The proprietor has established a clear system for staff to report and record any concerns that they may have. The proposed school intends to work closely with local authorities and other agencies to ensure that vulnerable pupils receive the support that they need. Furthermore, it is intended that a clinical team of professionals employed by the proposed school will provide therapeutic help and support to pupils should this be required. Paragraphs 9, 9(a) to 9(c), 10  The proprietor has a suitable behaviour policy in place. There is also an appropriate anti-bullying policy. Both of these policies pay particular regard to the needs of pupils in the proposed school. The behaviour policy outlines clearly how pupils are expected to behave and how incidents of unacceptable behaviour will be addressed. The proprietor has also ensured that there is a suitable policy in place for the use of

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Main inspection findings

restrictive physical intervention in the proposed school. As part of their induction, staff will complete training that includes behaviour and de-escalation, trauma and therapeutic approaches and the use of restrictive physical intervention.  The proprietor has established a system for staff to record and report any incidents of poor behaviour, bullying or restrictive physical intervention. The proposed school’s leaders will have oversight of any incidents that have been recorded and will complete regular analysis of this information. This information will also be shared with the proprietor. Paragraphs 11 and 12  The proprietor has a suitable health and safety policy. It complies with all relevant laws. There is a regional leader, who has a thorough oversight of all aspects of health and safety. They will provide support and guidance to the proposed school.  The proprietor has made suitable arrangements to ensure that the school’s computer

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Main inspection findings

network will have appropriate monitoring and filtering systems in place. This provides reassurance that pupils will be safe when they are using electronic devices in school.  The proprietor has ensured that there are a range of measures in place to comply with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. For example, there are fire extinguishers, which will be checked regularly and there is appropriate signage around the building identifying ample emergency routes and exits. There are planned and regular fire drills, which will be logged and any actions required will be noted. Paragraph 13  The proprietor has written a first-aid policy and has made arrangements to ensure that all staff are suitably qualified to administer first aid. The proposed school has ensured that there are ample fully stocked first-aid kits. Paragraphs 14  The proposed number of staff is more than adequate to ensure that pupils will be

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Main inspection findings

appropriately supervised throughout the school day, including at the start and end of the school day and at breaktimes. Paragraph 15  The proposed school has a suitable admissions procedure. The proprietor has established systems to ensure that the school’s admission and attendance registers will comply with the Education (Pupil Registration) Regulations 2006.  There is an appropriate, electronic system in place to register pupils’ attendance each day. The proposed school will monitor any absences and will take swift and appropriate action to follow up on any pupil absence. Paragraph 16, 16(a), 16(b)  The proprietor has ensured that there is a suitable risk assessment policy in place. The risk assessments that have already been completed show how the proposed school plans to take appropriate actions to minimise risks to pupils. These include risk assessments for off-site trips and visits, manual handling and ensuring that the school

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Main inspection findings

building remains safe.  The standards in this part 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), 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) to 21(3)(b), 21(5), 21(5)(a)(1) to 21(5)(b), 21(5)(c), 21(6)  The single central record is in place and meets the requirements for the information it must contain. The proprietor understands that the required checks on the suitability of staff must be completed before staff take up appointment. These include the enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service checks, identification checks, checks on staff’s right to work in the United Kingdom and checks relating to the suitability for leadership and management of a school.  All of the required checks for members of the proprietor body, regional and school leaders and most staff at the proposed school have been completed. There is a clear and detailed plan for the induction of new staff. This includes staff completing

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Main inspection findings

safeguarding and other appropriate training on appointment. Many staff have been appointed and are completing a raft of training in preparation should the proposed school open.  The proposed school does not intend to use supply staff. However, the proprietor is aware of the procedures that it should follow should it employ agency staff 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.

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Main inspection findings

Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools Paragraph 25  The proposed school is housed in a building that has previously been used as a hotel and offices. It is set in its own substantial grounds. The proprietor has acquired the entire site. However, it is intended that the proposed school will only occupy part of the premises. Access to other parts of the building is prohibited. The proprietor has refurbished the building to a very high standard.  The layout of the proposed school has been carefully considered to ensure that primary- and secondary-age pupils have separate spaces that meet their needs and ages. For example, primary-age pupils will occupy the ground floor. There are two primary classrooms with designated library areas, breakout rooms and clinical therapy rooms. Secondary-age pupils will occupy the first floor. There are designated specialist classrooms for science, food preparation and design technology, for example.

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Main inspection findings

Additionally, there is a library, breakout rooms and further clinical therapy rooms. Classrooms and other spaces are bright, spacious and clean. They are well resourced and inviting, particularly for pupils who have had previous negative experiences of education. Added to this, there are spacious areas for staff to use, a conference room, offices, dining room and a secure exams room. Paragraphs 23(1) to 23(1)(c), 28(1) to 28(2)(b)  There are toilet and washing facilities provided in separate rooms, intended for use by one pupil at a time and secured from the inside to provide privacy. There are separate toilet facilities for primary-age pupils and for secondary-age pupils. The proprietor has ensured that there is shower and changing accommodation available for pupils to use. There are separate shower facilities for primary- and secondary-age pupils. There is an accessible toilet for the use of pupils, staff and visitors. There is a supply of hot

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Main inspection findings

and cold running water. The hot water does not pose a scalding risk.  The proprietor has made arrangements to ensure that pupils have access to drinking water throughout the day. There is a water fountain on each floor, and these are clearly marked as drinking water. Paragraphs 24(1) to 24(1)(c)  There is suitable accommodation provided for the short-term care of sick and injured pupils. This designated space is close to the toilet facilities. There is a sink in this room as well as a bed, blanket and first-aid kit. Paragraphs 26, 27 to 27(b), 29(1) to 29(1)(b)  Pupils will have access to a vast outdoor area. It is safe and secure and will provide pupils with ample space for them to use at breaktimes. There are two multi-use games areas, a large, grassed area and a playground. The proprietor intends to further develop this space with playground equipment, including a trim trail. Primary- and secondary-age pupils will have separate breaktimes. Pupils will have timetabled

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Main inspection findings

PE lessons in accordance with the proposed school’s curriculum. There is plentiful space for this to take place in the proposed school’s outdoor space.  Teaching spaces are light and airy. They have suitable heating, lighting and acoustics. There is appropriate external lighting so that pupils, staff and visitors can enter or exit the building safely in the hours of darkness.  The standards in this part 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(1)(j), 32(2), 32(2)(a), 32(2)(b), 32(2)(b)(ii), 32(2)(c), 32(2)(d), 32(3) to 32(3)(g)  The proposed school’s website provides parents with all of the information that the school is required to provide. A wide range of policies are in place and available on the school’s website. These include the curriculum, behaviour, health and safety and safeguarding policies.  The proposed school intends to provide the necessary information to the responsible local authorities for pupils with an EHC plan and looked-after children.  The proposed school plans to provide termly and annual reports on pupils’ progress and attainment to parents. The proprietor is aware that following any inspection, copies of the report must be provided to parents.  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 Paragraphs 33 to 33(k)  The proprietor has an appropriate complaints policy. This sets out suitable timescales for responding to complaints and includes information about the storage and sharing of written records. The policy ensures that the procedure for making a complaint is transparent.  The standards in this part 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 demonstrates a strong understanding and knowledge of the standards. There is rigour in its approach to ongoing compliance to ensure that the standards are met consistently. This is likely to enable the proprietor to set up and run this independent school successfully. It has also ensured that those with responsibility for leadership and management have the knowledge and expertise they need to carry out their roles effectively. The proprietor is likely to fulfil its responsibilities to promote the well-being of pupils.  The standards in this part 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 proprietor has ensured that there is a suitable accessibility plan that meets the requirements of paragraph 3 of schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010.

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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 Independent special school

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Proposed school details

Annual fees (day pupils) £70,000 to £100,000

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Proposed school details

Website www.witherslackgroup.co.uk/our- locations/our-schools/cheshire-hall-school Email address admin@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 60 60

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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 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 60

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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 60

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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 60

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of full-time equivalent teaching staff Not applicable 12

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of part-time teaching staff Not applicable 0

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Information about this proposed school

 The proposed school is located at Congleton Road, Cheshire, Sandbach, Cheshire CW11 4TF.  It is proposed that the school will provide full-time education for up to 60 mixed-gender pupils, aged between eight and 16 years. The proprietor intends for the school to cater for pupils with SEND. It will provide for pupils with a range of needs, including social, emotional and mental health needs and autism. These pupils will have an EHC plan.  The proposed school does not intend to use any alternative provision.

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Information about this inspection

 This inspection was commissioned by the Department for Education (DfE) to determine if the school is likely to meet the independent school standards if the DfE decides to approve the request to register this school.  This was the school’s first pre-registration inspection.  The proposed school is part of the Witherslack Group. The proprietor body is Witherslack Group Limited.  The inspector held discussions with a representative of the proprietor body, a regional director and the headteacher. They also met with other school leaders and Witherslack Group regional leaders.  The inspector made a tour of the proposed school to check the suitability of the premises against the relevant standards. They looked at a wide range of documents and policies, including those related to the curriculum, behaviour and health and safety. They also checked documents relating to safeguarding, including the single central record.

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Inspection team

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Inspection team

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Inspection team

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Inspection team

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Inspection team

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Inspection team

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Inspection team

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