Liberty School

School pre-registration inspection report

p.1

Liberty School Toucan Education, Crowtrees Ground, Hexham Road Newcastle-upon- Tyne NE16 3BN

p.1

Main inspection findings

Part 1. Quality of education provided Paragraphs 2, 2(1) to 2(1)(b)(ii), 2(2) to 2(2)(b), 2(2)(d) to 2(2)(d)(ii), 2(2)(f), 2(2)(h), 2(2)(i)  The school has set a clear curriculum policy. This policy is accompanied by appropriate schemes of work. The curriculum ensures that pupils study a broad range of subjects. They align with the requirements of the national curriculum. It is planned to ensure that pupils are skilled in literacy, numeracy and speaking and listening skills so that they are ready for their next steps in learning.  The proprietor has considered how the curriculum will be adapted to the needs of different pupils, including pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). The proprietor and other leaders have experience of supporting pupils with SEND.  The curriculum and associated schemes of work build progression of knowledge and skills over time. Pupils will benefit from the application of these skills in their own

p.1

Main inspection findings

project work.  The school has an appropriate phonics programme and early reading offer. The school will use ‘family time’ each day as part of their promotion of a love of reading. The English curriculum will also support pupils to develop skills in writing.  As well as a physical education curriculum, pupils will also be physically active through the outdoor learning curriculum.  The school has a programme for personal, social and health education (PSHE). The school will use supporting resources from a commercial scheme. Alongside the schools ‘life skills’ programme, this will help pupils understand life in modern Britain.  The school has considered that pupils may join at different starting points. The school has planned out approaches to ensure that they understand gaps in pupils’ knowledge, skills and understanding through a clear induction offer. Paragraph 2A(1), 2A(1)(a), 2A(1)(d) to 2A(1)(g), 2A(2)

p.1

Main inspection findings

 The school has an appropriate relationships and sex education policy. It reflects statutory guidance and is suitable for the age range of the school.  Parents and carers are consulted on the policy. The school plans to make the policy available to parents. The school also plans to ensure the content is available to parents through the school’s chosen communication platform. Paragraphs 3, 3(a) to 3(j), 4  The curriculum will be taught by qualified teachers. Teachers will be experienced in the age range that they will teach. They will be supported through the schemes of work that the school intends to use. The curriculum is well sequenced. It enables pupils to make connections between learning and build on prior knowledge.  The school intends to use assessment in different ways. The school will use a range of assessments to understand pupils’ academic and pastoral needs. This work will start when pupils join the school. The curriculum will be used to ensure that pupils know

p.2

Main inspection findings

and remember more over time. Key learning is identified across the curriculum so that teachers can make regular checks on what pupils know and remember.  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) to 5(d)  The school has a carefully planned curriculum offer for pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. It makes use of local facilities and opportunities such as caring for those in the community as well as making effective links to the police and fire service. This also helps pupils understand and respect public institutions.  Respect for other faiths and cultures will be taught through the religious education and the PSHE curriculum. The school plans to invoke democratic opportunities through pupil voice activities.  The school will support pupils understanding of fundamental British values and

p.2

Main inspection findings

protected characteristics though its curriculum, the projects that pupils will study and the enterprise opportunities that are planned.  The school will present information in an impartial way and encourage pupils to consider the viewpoints of different people as they learn.  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 school has a safeguarding policy which reflects statutory guidance. Information about local safeguarding partners was updated during the inspection. The policy identifies how concerns about pupils will be reported to the designated safeguarding leaders (DSL) in a timely way. It also explains how adults who may be concerned about other adults should raise their concerns.  The headteacher, who will be the DSL, and other staff have undertaken pertinent training to fulfil their roles. They are suitably trained and understand local procedures

p.2

Main inspection findings

for reporting concerns. Induction for staff related to safeguarding is clear. Ongoing and annual updates, with the support of an external provider, are already planned for. This ensures that staff will have a wide range of understanding about different aspects of safeguarding, including statutory responsibilities.  The school has an online reporting system to record concerns about pupils. The DSL and safeguarding team will use this to monitor and work with other agencies where needed.  The school understands the importance of pupils’ well-being and welfare. The ethos and vision of the school is well aligned to ensuring pupils are well cared for and are ready to learn. Paragraphs 9, 9(a) to 9(c), 10  The school’s behaviour policy is clear. It sets out how pupils will be supported through positive support and interactions with staff and peers. Expectations for behaviour are clearly set out for both on-site learning and off-site learning. The school has an online

p.2

Main inspection findings

recording system for incidents linked to behaviour. Where needed, it will use individual pupil assessments to support pupils with their behaviour. The anti-bullying policy for the school is fit for purpose. Paragraphs 11, 12, 13 and 14  The proprietor has ensured that there is a suitable health and safety policy in place. It is pertinent to the building and the pupils and staff who will use it.  Alongside the health and safety policy, there is an appropriate first aid policy. Injuries will be recorded using an online system. The school holds the necessary in date first aid equipment to deal with minor injuries. Some staff are already trained in first aid and future recruitment plans will ensure others are suitably trained.  The school has a working fire alarm. The proprietor ensures that annual checks are completed by professionals on the fire alarm system, the firefighting equipment and the emergency lighting. The school conducts fire drills are conducted and maintains

p.3

Main inspection findings

records of these. The school has a completed fire risk assessment. This matches the mechanisms in place to reduce the risk of fire. Fire evacuation routes are clear and have the correct signage. However, the school does not have a clear fire policy. Timely and regular checks on fire safety systems were not available during the inspection. The school does not comply with requirements of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. Paragraph 15  The school has an electronic system in place to record, track and evaluate pupils’ attendance.  The school plans to use an admissions register that includes all the necessary details as set out in statutory guidance. Paragraph 16, 16(a), 16 (b)  The proprietor has a risk assessment policy that sets out how risks will be assessed and evaluated. There are suitable risk assessments in place for a range of school activities, including when pupils learn off site and when they participate in outdoor

p.3

Main inspection findings

learning activities such as using the campfire. The policy provides clarity as to how and when risk assessments should be updated.  The standards in this part are not 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 (e), 18(3), 19(2) to 19(2)(d)(ii), 20(6), 20(6)(a) to (c), 21(1), 21(2), 21(3), 21(3)(a) to 21(3)(b), 21(5) to 21(5)(a)(ii) 21(5)(c), 21(6), 21(7)(a), 21(7)(b)  The proprietor body has completed safer recruitment training. Along with other leaders, it knows the requirements and necessary recruitment checks needed for staff before they commence employment.  There is a single central record (SCR) in place for staff who will work at the proposed school. It contains the necessary spaces to check on staff’s suitability to work with pupils. During the course of the inspection, the school ensured that some checks were

p.3

Main inspection findings

made in relation to the suitability of some members of the proprietor body.  Whilst school has no supply staff recorded on the SCR, it understands the necessary checks that are required should supply staff be needed when the proposed school opens.  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), 23(1)(b), 24(1)(a) to (b), 24(2), 28(1)(a) to (d), 28(2), 28(2)(a) to (b)  Pupils have access to toilets which are for their sole use. Toilet cubicles can be locked from the inside for privacy. Each toilet has their own washing facility with hot and cold water available.  Drinking water is clearly labelled across the site and available at all times for pupils.  A medical room is available for pupils to use. At present, it contains a washing facility but is not separate from a toilet. The school’s other possible medical room does not

p.4

Main inspection findings

have a washing facility. Paragraphs 25, 26, 27, 27(a), 27(b), 29(1), 29(1)(a), 29(1)(b)  The proposed school is a two-floor building that has been extensively refurbished. It was previously used as a sports facility including squash courts. It has four bright and airy classrooms that are welcoming and calm. The lighting and acoustics for each room are appropriate. There is an indoor space that can be used to support sensory and emotional regulation input for pupils. Internally, the premises are well maintained and tidy. The school is in the process of developing the space for pupils in the early years.  Outside, the buildings and premises work is not complete. The school is waiting for the delivery of a shipping container which, as well as providing storage, will complete the exterior perimeter fencing for the school. The outdoor space is a suitable size for play, social and physical education. It is currently uneven and overgrown with some

p.4

Main inspection findings

debris lying around. The planned groundworks will help further develop the outdoor space for children in Reception year.  The exterior of the building is lit in the hours of darkness with light sensitive lighting.  The standards in this part are not likely to be met if the proposed school opens. Part 6. Provision of information Paragraph 32(1), 32(1)(a) to (d), 32(1)(f) to (i), 32(2), 32(2)(a), 32(2)(b), 32(2)(b)(ii), 32(2)(c) to (d), 32(3), 32(3)(a) to (f)  The proprietor body understands the requirements around a school’s website. The website is currently under construction. The proprietor body has developed all the necessary policies that are required to go on the website. These will also be provided to parents of pupils on roll as part of induction.  The school is clear on how it will need to report to parents. This will happen at least termly.  Where applicable, funding will be accounted for and reported to the appropriate local

p.4

Main inspection findings

authority.  The school is aware that inspection reports and achievement information is to be reported on the school website.  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) to (k)  The school has an appropriate complaints policy. It outlines with clarity the timeframes and stages complaints will be handled. This includes who will attend any complaints panels.  The policy makes clear how complaints will be reported and how records of complaints will be kept in school.  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 Paragraph 34(1), 34(1)(a) to (c)  The proprietor and other leaders bring to the proposed school a wide range of educational experience. They have a clear vision for the school, and this is shared across staff spoken to as part of the inspection. The school’s proposed curriculum is

p.5

Main inspection findings

ambitious and planned so that pupils have a broad academic and pastoral offer. This will help them be prepared for their next steps in education.  At the time of this inspection, the proprietor demonstrated some understanding of the standards. However, the standards were not known in sufficient detail to ensure that they will be met securely and consistently.  The proprietor body has established relationships with other professionals who provide support to the proprietor and the school. It seeks further advice where needed. The proprietor body works closely with a number of local authorities in its other roles.  The proprietor body knows that meeting the standards consistently and securely is important. Along with school leaders, it is suitably focused on ensuring that all standards, including those not met at the time of this inspection, are met for the proposed school.  The standard in this part is not likely to be met if the proposed school opens.

p.5

Main inspection findings

Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010  The school has a written accessibility policy and plan. The proprietor has ensured that the statutory requirements of the Equality Act 2010 are likely to be met. Statutory requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage  The school’s proposed early years curriculum reflects clearly the seven areas of learning and development as set out in the statutory framework. The school’s secure understanding of the early years curriculum supports children’s future learning in the school.  The school places a suitable focus on communication and language as well as the other prime and specific areas of learning. The proposed school will ensure that staff are well supported through collaborative working to shape effective interactions between children and staff. Careful ongoing assessment will support children to develop the important knowledge and skills in readiness for key stage 1.

p.6

Main inspection findings

 The proprietor has ensured that the school is likely to meet the statutory requirements of the early years foundation stage.

p.6

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.

p.7

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.8

Proposed school details

Email address philippa@libertyschool.co.uk

p.8

Proposed school details

Date of previous standard inspection Not previously inspected

p.8

n

Age range of pupils not applicable 4-11 4-11 Number of pupils on the school roll not applicable 55 55

p.9

School's current position School's proposal

Gender of pupils not applicable Mixed Number of full-time pupils of compulsory school age not applicable 55

p.9

School's current position School's proposal

Number of part-time pupils not applicable 0

p.9

School's current position School's proposal

Number of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities not applicable 5

p.9

School's current position School's proposal

Of which, number of pupils with an education, health and care plan not applicable 5

p.9

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 5

p.9

School's current position School's proposal

Number of full-time equivalent teaching staff not applicable 4

p.10

School's current position School's proposal

Number of part-time teaching staff not applicable 0

p.10

School's current position School's proposal

Number of staff in the welfare provision not applicable 4

p.10

Information about this proposed school

 The proposed school is situated in a building previously used for sport activities such as squash on the site of Blaydon Rugby Club. It is located at Crowtrees Ground, Hexham Road, Newcastle-upon-Tyne NE16 3BN.  The proposed school does not have any religious character.  The proposed school does not intend to use any alternative provision.

p.10

Information about this inspection

 This pre-registration inspection was commissioned by the Department for Education. The purpose of the inspection was to determine if the school is likely to meet the independent school standards prior to opening as a registered school. This is the first pre-registration inspection for the school.  The inspection was conducted with two days’ notice.  The inspectors met with members of the proprietor board, the headteacher and leaders who will work with the proposed school.  The inspectors reviewed documents and policies associated with the independent school standards. An inspector toured the premises, accompanied by the chair of the proprietor body. Documents and policies relating to the school’s safeguarding procedures were reviewed.

p.11

Inspection team

Emily Stevens, lead inspector His Majesty's Inspector

p.11

Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils

 12 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures compliance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005[12].

p.12

Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

 24(1) The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that suitable accommodation is provided in order to cater for the medical and therapy needs of pupils, including-  24(1)(b) accommodation for the short term care of sick and injured pupils, which includes a washing facility and is near to a toilet facility;  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;  28(2) The facilities provided under sub-paragraph (1)(a) will be suitable only if-  28(2)(b) they are in a separate area from the toilet facilities;  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

p.12

Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

curriculum; and  29(1)(b) pupils to play outside.

p.12

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 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.12

Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

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.13

Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

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.13

Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

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.13

Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

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.13

Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

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

p.13

Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

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

p.13