Blackpool Skills Academy

School pre-registration inspection report

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Blackpool Skills Academy Stanley House, Stanley Road, Blackpool, Lancashire FY1 4QL

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Main inspection findings

Part 1. Quality of education provided Paragraphs 2(1) to 2(1)(b)(ii), 2(2) to 2(2)(e)(iii), 2(2)(g) to 2(2)(i)  The proprietor has written an appropriate curriculum policy which clearly indicates the school’s aims for the curriculum. The policy outlines a sufficiently broad range of subjects for pupils to study in key stages 3 and 4. The proposed school has extended its curriculum beyond its current vocational offer. Curriculum documents outline how the curriculum will contribute to pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural (SMSC) education and take into account the needs, aptitudes and previous experiences of pupils.  The curriculum policy is supported by appropriate schemes of work. The proposed school has set out what pupils should learn. It intends to adapt the schemes of work to meet the individual needs of pupils, who may have special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), and an education, health and care (EHC) plan. The

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Main inspection findings

proposed school intends to ensure that the delivery of the curriculum is adapted to provide real-life and practical experiences to support pupils to apply their learning in different and meaningful contexts.  The proposed school places sufficient importance on the teaching of reading, writing, speaking and listening and mathematics. It has a designated spacious library area that pupils can access to read for pleasure. Subjects such as art and design and physical education (PE) are also given prominence on the proposed school’s timetable. Pupils will study a range of other subjects that will provide them with experiences in scientific, technological and human and social education.  Additionally, pupils will have the opportunity to gain accreditation and qualifications in a wide range of vocational courses such as construction and hair and beauty. Pupils will also have access to academic qualifications according to their abilities, interests

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Main inspection findings

and needs. The proposed school intends to offer life skills lessons such as cooking, doing laundry and ironing to help pupils to be well prepared for the responsibilities of adult life.  The school intends to provide a curriculum for pupils’ personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) education. There is an appropriate scheme of work for PSHE which sets out the important knowledge that pupils will acquire in key stages 3 and 4. There is a suitable emphasis on health and well-being, relationships, the wider world and preparation for adulthood. The curriculum encourages pupils’ respect for other people, including those with protected characteristics as set out in the Equality Act 2010.  There are suitable arrangements in place for pupils to receive careers education. The proposed school intends to provide impartial, independent careers information, advice and guidance. It intends to draw on the support of external agencies, local schools,

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Main inspection findings

colleges and businesses. Additionally, the proprietor has an established wide network of employers who will provide work experience for pupils. The school also plans to organise visits to employers and local businesses. These activities will be tailored to the individual needs and interests of pupils. Paragraphs 2A(1), 2A(1)(b), 2A(1)(d) to 2A(2)  The 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 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 staff with experience of different subjects and vocational courses. The proprietor has

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Main inspection findings

also ensured that staff have the skills required to successfully support pupils with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs. It also intends to further support staff’s professional development by providing a mentor for new staff. Additionally, there will be training and opportunities to work with other schools to help teachers deliver the curriculum effectively. Staff will also have the opportunity to acquire further qualifications.  The proposed school has developed curriculum plans to ensure that staff know what knowledge pupils should acquire. Teachers will adapt these plans in response to the needs, aptitudes and prior knowledge of pupils. Teaching spaces, including construction and hair and beauty rooms, are spacious and well resourced. These are equipped with a range of appropriate and high-quality equipment and materials to support the teaching of vocational subjects.  The proprietor has in place a system for quality assurance activities to ensure that

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Main inspection findings

pupils increase and develop their understanding, knowledge and skills across the curriculum. These checks will be completed by the proprietor, governors and partner schools. Information from the quality assurance checks will inform future provision, 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 they join the proposed school. Initial and ongoing assessments will inform what and how pupils are taught. Pupils will have individual learning plans that will be informed by ongoing assessment information. The school intends that teachers will check regularly that pupils are learning the intended curriculum. Paragraphs 3(h) to 3(j)  There is a suitable policy in place setting out the proposed school’s expectations of pupils’ behaviour. The policy is appropriate to the needs of pupils in the proposed

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Main inspection findings

school. It 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 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 met if the proposed school opens.

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Main inspection findings

Part 2. Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils Paragraphs 5 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 British values such as the rule of law and democracy. Pupils will gain an understanding of how to contribute to the life of the school by sharing their views on topics such as lunchtime menus. Additionally, they will learn about protected characteristics as set out in the Equality Act 2010. Pupils will also learn about other 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 and knife crime. The proposed school intends that this will help pupils to make responsible and

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Main inspection findings

safe choices in their future lives. Additionally, the proposed school intends to invite visitors and speakers into school such as the police and health professionals to offer advice and guidance to pupils.  Pupils will have the opportunity to develop and nurture their talents and interests. Additionally, the proprietor plans for pupils to work with local schools and charities to develop their outdoor spaces. For example, the school plans to build on previous successful projects where pupils made planters, benches and outdoor play equipment for a local hospice and a school. The proposed school intends to continue to work on a number of community projects so that pupils can make a positive contribution to society. These wide-ranging activities are planned to give pupils the opportunity to develop self-esteem and confidence and 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 to7(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 proprietor plans to share any safeguarding concerns with pupils’ home schools. It understands its safeguarding responsibilities whether a pupil is part or full time at the proposed school.  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. Leaders who would be 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. The proposed school plans to

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Main inspection findings

continue to work closely with the local authority to ensure that staff have the most up-to-date safeguarding information. The proprietor has established a system for staff to report and record any concerns that they may have. The proprietor plans to strengthen record-keeping systems through a new online system. Paragraphs 9 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 made reference to the use of restrictive physical intervention in the proposed school. Some staff have completed training for the use of restrictive physical intervention. The proposed school intends that other staff will also be trained in its

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Main inspection findings

use in due course. Additionally, staff have had training that includes trauma-informed approaches and restorative practice. The proposed school’s quiet rooms provide a suitable environment where pupils can have space to manage their emotions and practise calming techniques.  The proprietor has established a system for staff to record and report any incidents of poor behaviour, bullying or restrictive physical intervention. It plans to strengthen record-keeping systems through a new online system. The proposed school’s leaders, governors and the proprietor will have oversight of any incidents that have been recorded and will complete regular analysis of this information. Paragraphs 11, 12  The proprietor has a suitable health and safety policy. It complies with all relevant statutory requirements.  The proprietor has made suitable arrangements to ensure that the school’s computer network will have appropriate monitoring and filtering systems in place. This provides

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Main inspection findings

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. Paragraph 13  The proprietor has written a first-aid policy and has made arrangements to ensure that staff are suitably qualified to administer first aid. The proposed school has ensured that there are ample fully stocked first-aid kits. Paragraph 14  The proposed number of staff is adequate to ensure that pupils will be appropriately supervised throughout the school day, including 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

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Main inspection findings

will comply with the Education (Pupil Registration) Regulations 2006. It plans to strengthen record-keeping systems through a new online system. The proposed school will monitor any absences and will take swift and appropriate action to follow up on any pupil absence. Paragraphs 16 to 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, expectant mothers and risks in the local area. Additionally, consideration has been given to potential risks in the construction and hair and beauty teaching spaces. The proprietor has ensured that these spaces have specific risk assessments, some completed by external experts, which identify risks and establish actions to mitigate those risks.

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Main inspection findings

 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), 21(1) to 21(3)(b), 21(5) to 21(5)(c)  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 and checks on staff’s right to work in the UK.  All of the required checks for school leaders and staff already appointed at the proposed school have been completed. There is a clear and detailed plan for the induction of new staff. This includes staff completing safeguarding and other appropriate training on appointment.  The proposed school does not intend to use supply staff. However, the proprietor is

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Main inspection findings

aware of the procedures that the school 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 training centre. The proposed school occupies three floors. The proprietor has refurbished the building to a high standard. Most rooms and teaching spaces are already in use. They are spacious, tidy and clean. There is some further minor decorative work to be completed in a small number of spaces.  The layout of the proposed school has been carefully considered to provide plenty of space for pupils of different ages, needs and interests. For example, the ground floor provides separate entrances for staff and pupils, office and reception areas, a medical room and an examination room. Additionally, there is a vast space for teaching construction. This includes bays and spaces to teach plumbing, electrics, plastering and joinery. Although this is a vocational work space, it is tidy and well organised.

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Main inspection findings

There is suitable storage for an array of tools and equipment. Furthermore, there is a classroom for academic work, a breakout space and suitable toilet facilities.  The second and third floors accommodate other vocational spaces such as hair and beauty rooms, a catering room and gymnasium. There are also classrooms, offices, a library area, breakout rooms, further toilet and showering facilities for pupils and a secure examinations cupboard. Additionally, there is a canteen and a second small kitchen area for pupils to practise life skills. All teaching spaces are well equipped, clean and bright. Paragraphs 23(1) to 23(1)(c), 28(1) to 28(2)(b)  There are suitable toilet and washing facilities provided for the sole use of pupils. The proprietor has ensured that there is shower and changing accommodation available for pupils to use. There is an accessible toilet for the use of pupils, staff and visitors.

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Main inspection findings

There is a supply of hot 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. This is clearly marked as drinking water and is in a separate area from the toilet facilities. Paragraphs 24(1) to 24(1)b, 24(2)  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 and first-aid kit. Paragraphs 26, 27 to 27(b), 29(1) to 29(1)(b)  Pupils will have access to a small outdoor area. It is safe and secure and will provide pupils with space for use at breaktimes. The proprietor intends to develop a space to the side of the building to include the installation of an artificial turf area and benches.  Pupils will have timetabled PE lessons in accordance with the proposed school’s

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Main inspection findings

curriculum. These will take place in the school’s gymnasium, in the outdoor space and at local sports venues. The proposed school has risk assessments in place to ensure the safety of pupils when travelling to and from these sites and when using these facilities.  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)(i), 32(2) to 32(2)(b), 32(2)(b)(ii) to 32(2)(d), 32(3) to 32(3)(g)  The proposed school’s website provides parents with all of the required information. 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 those pupils with an EHC plan and looked-after children.  The proposed school plans to provide termly 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 secure knowledge of the standards. Those with responsibility for leadership and management, including a local governing body, have the knowledge and expertise they need to carry out their roles effectively. The proprietor intends that the existing strong links with the local authority and partner schools will continue to provide support and challenge to the proposed school. The proprietor is committed to providing a high-quality education for pupils, particularly vulnerable pupils, in the community. 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. Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010  The proprietor has ensured that there is a suitable accessibility plan that meets the

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Main inspection findings

requirements 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

Chair David Hodge (Co-Chair) Andrew Iredale (Co-Chair) Headteacher David Hodge

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Proposed school details

Annual fees (day pupils) £20,000 to £35,000

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Proposed school details

Website www.blackpoolskillsacademy.co.uk

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Proposed school details

Email address david.hodge@blackpoolskillsacademy.co.uk

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Provider already operating

Number of pupils of compulsory school age 40 Number of pupils of compulsory school age who have an education, health and care plan, or who are looked after by a local authority Total hours operating as a school per week 21

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Provider already operating

Total hours of teaching provided per week 21

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recommendation

Age range of pupils 11 to 16 11 to 16 11 to 16 Number of pupils on the school roll 40 50 50

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Gender of pupils Mixed Mixed Number of full-time pupils of compulsory school age 0 50

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities 40 50

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Of which, number of pupils with an education, health and care plan 2 Unknown

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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 0 Unknown

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School’s current position School’s proposal

Number of full-time equivalent teaching staff 5 5

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Information about this proposed school

 The proposed school is located at Stanley House, Stanley Road, Blackpool, Lancashire, FY1 4QL.  The proprietor body is Blackpool Skills Academy CIC. There are two directors who are the co-chairs of the proprietor body. One of the chairs of the proprietor body is the headteacher.  It is proposed that the school will provide full- or part-time education for up to 50 mixed-gender pupils, aged between 11 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 SEMH needs. Some of these pupils may 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 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 already operating. There are currently 40 pupils on the school’s admissions register who attend the school on a part-time basis. A small number of pupils have an EHC plan and/or are looked after by the local authority. The date of the first admission was 6 September 2022.  The inspector held discussions with the co-chairs of the proprietor body, one of whom is the headteacher. She also met with some members of staff and some pupils. The inspector also spoke with a representative of the local authority.  The inspector made a tour of the proposed school to check the suitability of the premises against the relevant standards. During the tour, the inspector visited some

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Information about this inspection

lessons. She looked at a wide range of documents and policies, including those related to the curriculum, behaviour and health and safety. She also checked documents relating to safeguarding, including the single central record.

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Inspection team

Sally Timmons, 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

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Inspection team

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Inspection team

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Inspection team

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