Oaktree Academy Centre Ltd

Oaktree Academy Centre Ltd, 9 April 2026 1 Oaktree Academy Centre Ltd 463 Waterloo Road, Blackpool FY4 4BW

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report:

Overall outcome The school is unlikely to meet all the independent school standards. It is currently operating without registration

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report:

The purpose of this inspection was to advise the Secretary of State for Education about the proposed school’s likely compliance with the independent school standards and associated requirements that are required for registration as an independent school.

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Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

When we carry out pre-registration inspections of proposed independent schools, we report on the provider’s likely compliance with part 8 of the independent school standards (the standards) first. Under part 8, the proprietor is required to ensure that the school meets all of the standards consistently. The standard in part 8 is intended to ensure that the quality of leadership and management at the school is sufficient for that purpose.

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Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

The proprietor body has not demonstrated the level of knowledge and expertise required to fulfil their role effectively. Most importantly, it has not acted swiftly enough to address deficiencies in the proposed school’s policies and practices related to safeguarding. The proprietor has not kept themselves sufficiently informed of new leaders’ early actions. This has ultimately led to deficiencies in policies, including the safeguarding policy. It has led to a lack of clarity for how the proposed school would likely operate. This is equally the case for the proposed school’s curriculum intentions.

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Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

The proprietor has not fully defined the systems and processes that it would likely adopt to assure themselves that policies are both fit for purpose and implemented effectively. This includes the health and safety policy, which has led to some crucial safety checks being overlooked. While the proprietor has begun to identify Oaktree Academy Centre Ltd, 9 April 2026 2 some approaches that would likely be suitable for quality assuring leaders’ work and holding them to account, overall, they are not robust enough.

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Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

The proprietor is unlikely to meet the relevant independent school standards if the Department for Education decides to register the provider as an independent school.

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Curriculum

The proprietor has not developed a sufficient curriculum policy that suitably accounts for the ages and needs of all pupils. They have not ensured that the intended curriculum is suitably underpinned by coherent plans and schemes of work. For instance, leaders have differing iterations of policies and curriculum documentation, resulting in contrasting or incomplete outlines for the intended curriculum. Additionally, policies and procedures were not fully aligned to age ranges and aptitudes that the school has applied to admit. Cumulatively, this demonstrates a lack of clarity in the proprietor’s curriculum thinking so far, and that curriculum design work is incomplete.

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Curriculum

The proprietor has identified an appropriate phonics programme and resources to support pupils that might be at the early stages of learning to read. However, these resources have not been acquired so they are not currently in place. As a result, the school is not well prepared to support pupils’ early reading development effectively from the outset.

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Curriculum

The proprietor has outlined suitable intentions to provide pupils with careers education and impartial careers advice. They have also set out appropriate curriculum plans for pupils to learn age-appropriate relationships and sex education content.

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Teaching

The proprietor has appropriate plans in place to recruit qualified teachers with a range of subject specialisms and relevant teaching expertise. Other staff that have already been recruited have prior experience of working with pupils that are in local authority care and those who have social, emotional or mental health needs.

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Teaching

The proprietor has ensured that the main classroom is suitable for teaching and appropriately resourced with reading materials. There are additional learning spaces that would likely be appropriate for small group or one-to-one teaching activities. Oaktree Academy Centre Ltd, 9 April 2026 3

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Assessment

The proprietor has not developed sufficiently robust frameworks to assess pupils’ progress. This is partly because the curriculum itself is not fully developed. Consequently, the particulars of knowledge and skills against which pupils’ learning will be assessed are not clearly defined.

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Assessment

The proprietor has introduced appropriate procedures to carry out baseline assessments of pupils’ knowledge and aptitudes on admission to the school. There are sensible plans to use these baseline assessments to identify pupils that might need further support to acquire fundamental knowledge and skills in reading, writing and mathematics.

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Assessment

The proprietor has not ensured that the relevant standards in this part are likely to be met.

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pupils

The proprietor has appropriate arrangements in place that would likely cater well for the spiritual, moral, social and cultural (SMSC) development of pupils. Leaders have adopted a suitable personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) curriculum which contains routine opportunities for pupils to reflect and build on their SMSC development.

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pupils

There are suitable plans to promote fundamental British values and for pupils to develop an appreciation for the different beliefs and backgrounds of others. This includes through the PSHE curriculum and religious education lessons. The proprietor has also developed adequate policies to protect pupils from experiencing inappropriate, biased or partisan views while at school.

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pupils

The proprietor is likely to meet the relevant standards in this part if the Department for Education decides to register the provider as an independent school.

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Safeguarding

The proprietor has not developed suitable safeguarding policies and procedures. Leaders work to differing versions of safeguarding policies, all of which are underpinned by out-of-date or withdrawn statutory guidance. Additionally, some policies were unclear, ambiguous or use outmoded terminology. This has led to conflicting guidance about how staff should report and record disclosures and Oaktree Academy Centre Ltd, 9 April 2026 4 signs of potential harm. The proprietor has not ensured sufficient clarity of expectations for staff about how to safeguard pupils consistently well.

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Safeguarding

Leaders have suitable intentions for future staff to be trained to identify the signs of potential harm. They have learning platforms in place that cover a range of safeguarding content, including the ‘Prevent’ duty and county lines risks.

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Behaviour and supervision of pupils

Overall, the proprietor has developed suitable written policies and procedures that are likely to promote good behaviour. These generally set out the rewards and sanctions that are likely to be used at the school. They also provide adequate indications of how leaders will record and monitor any behavioural incidents.

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Anti-bullying

Leaders have developed a suitable anti-bullying policy which indicates a commitment to ensuring pupils experience school without undue pressure or discrimination. There are sufficient plans to enable pupils to raise bullying concerns with staff. Pupils will likely develop an appropriate knowledge of bullying and general awareness of discrimination through the PSHE curriculum.

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Health and safety, fire and first aid

The proprietor has not ensured full compliance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2025. In part, this is because the latest fire safety risk assessment audit of the premises has not accounted for the intended number of pupils and staff. Consequently, there are insufficient assurances that the current fire safety arrangements would be suitable for the larger number of total occupants being proposed.

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Health and safety, fire and first aid

The proprietor has given initial thought to how it will ensure compliance with health and safety laws. In the main, suitable risk assessment protocols are in place and are supported by appropriate policies. School staff typically use appropriate day-to-day systems to check the condition of equipment, fixtures and fittings. The proprietor also arranges routine safety checks on electrical items. However, the proprietor has not currently established sufficiently rigorous or systematic arrangements to oversee and evaluate the ongoing effective implementation of the health and safety policy.

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Admissions and attendance

The proprietor has not ensured that, where relevant, policies reflect the expectations set out in School Attendance (Pupil Registration) (England) Oaktree Academy Centre Ltd, 9 April 2026 5 Regulations 2024. Consequently, the procedures as outlined in current policies are likely to result in leaders and staff recording some pupil absences incorrectly.

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Admissions and attendance

The proprietor has developed a sufficient admissions policy and there are suitable systems in place to maintain a compliant admissions register.

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Risk assessment

The proprietor has developed a risk assessment policy. It has ensured that there are appropriate risk assessments in place for intended activities and items. Leaders demonstrate suitable knowledge and skills to develop further risk assessments when new activities and needs arise. The proprietor shows appropriate awareness of how to develop personalised safety plans, such as evacuation plans, for pupils and staff that might require reasonable adjustments.

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Risk assessment

The proprietor has not ensured that the relevant standards in this part are likely to be met.

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The recruitment checks made on staff, supply staff and the proprietor

The proprietor has not ensured that recruitment checks, and the policies that underpin them, are robust. For instance, the proprietor does not suitably assure itself of a person’s medical fitness. Furthermore, the safer recruitment policy does not outline how the proposed school will systematically complete such checks. As a result, staff have commenced employment without the proprietor gaining suitable assurances that they are fit to work at the proposed school.

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The recruitment checks made on staff, supply staff and the proprietor

The proprietor does not ensure staff personnel records are well kept. For example, some pre-employment documents and processes are not recorded in line with the proprietor’s expected protocols, and some documents are missing key details. Furthermore, some records were not available to review during the on-site inspection. Systems and procedures for safer recruitment are not followed consistently. For example, some documents and checks for new staff are not signed off by leaders or the proprietor. As a result, some pre-employment information has not been duly considered or appropriately processed before staff begin their employment, which increases the risk to pupils.

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The single central record of these recruitment checks

The proprietor has not ensured that an accurate and compliant single central record has been maintained. At various points during the inspection, the proprietor, and those acting on its behalf, supplied incomplete and inconsistent versions of the single central record, reducing assurance about safer recruitment Oaktree Academy Centre Ltd, 9 April 2026 6 checks. Although the proprietor and leaders took steps to rectify these shortcomings, there were still some residual issues by the end of the on-site inspection.

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The single central record of these recruitment checks

The proprietor has not ensured that the relevant standards in this part are likely to be met.

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and showers

There are 2 toilet cubicles at the proposed school premises, one on each floor. Both are lockable from the inside which makes them appropriate for use regardless of gender. At present, one toilet is used as a staff toilet. However, leaders have appropriate plans to review these arrangements should the proposed school open. These plans are likely to be appropriate to cater for the proposed number of pupils and staff.

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and showers

There is an appropriate water supply. Water temperature checks are carried out on a weekly basis to ensure safety. Leaders ensure that there is appropriate signage near to water sources to indicate risks and suitability for drinking.

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and showers

There are appropriate plans in place for pupils to change following physical activity. This is mostly intended to be provided off-site at a sports centre with its own changing facilities. Nonetheless, the proposed school site has a room with a shower installed.

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Medical room and accommodation for pupils’ therapy needs

There is one medical room. It has a bed, washing facilities in the form of a shower cubicle and is located near to a toilet. There is a fully stocked first aid kit. The proprietor has purchased a medicines cupboard to be installed securely on the wall.

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Medical room and accommodation for pupils’ therapy needs

The medical room is on the first floor. Consequently, should any pupils have, or develop, a physical disability or mobility issues, the current location of the medical room would present challenges and require further consideration. However, the proprietor does not expect that any commissioning body would seek a place at the proposed school for pupils with physical disabilities or mobility restrictions.

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Ensuring the health, safety and welfare of pupils

The proprietor has not ensured that an asbestos survey has been carried out on the building. Although the proprietor intends to schedule this survey in the near Oaktree Academy Centre Ltd, 9 April 2026 7 future, no firm arrangements had been made by the conclusion of the on-site inspection.

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Ensuring the health, safety and welfare of pupils

The proposed school has a main classroom on the ground floor and a smaller classroom on the first floor. With appropriate systems and procedures in place to define how these spaces will be used and how they will support the needs of intended pupils, these classrooms are likely to be suitable for their intended purpose.

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Lighting and acoustic conditions

The lighting and acoustic conditions at the premises are generally of a high standard. Dedicated teaching spaces are well-lit. Sound insulation in the main classroom is effective. There are no evident issues that would impede pupils’ learning or staff instruction.

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Outdoor space

The proprietor has recently created a fenced area to the rear of the property. While it is limited in size, with appropriate arrangements to manage its use, it is likely to be suitable for some basic outdoor recreation and social interaction. Leaders also have plans to further develop and extend this area to make it more suitable as a recreation space for the intended age range of pupils.

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Outdoor space

The proprietor has not ensured that the relevant standards in this part are likely to be met.

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Part 6. Provision of information

The proposed school website is underdeveloped. It does not contain full contact details for leaders and the proprietor. Some required policies are not published, and others, including the safeguarding policy, are not suitable for publication in their current form.

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Part 6. Provision of information

The proprietor has not ensured that the relevant standards in this part are likely to be met.

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Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled

By the end of the on-site inspection, the proprietor was able to demonstrate suitable arrangements for handling complaints. It has implemented a new policy that outlines clear stages from informal to formal. The policy sets out expected timescales for considering concerns and explains the possible outcomes. It also confirms complainants’ right to request a panel hearing. Oaktree Academy Centre Ltd, 9 April 2026 8 The proprietor is likely to meet the relevant standards in this part if the Department for Education decides to register the provider as an independent school.

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The school’s accessibility plan

The proprietor has developed an adequate accessibility plan that takes into account the requirements of schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010.

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About this inspection

Inspectors carried out this inspection under section 99 of the Education and Skills Act 2008, at the request of the registration authority for independent schools.

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About this inspection

Inspectors checked the school’s likely compliance with the independent school standards. These are the requirements set out in the schedule to the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014.

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About this inspection

Following our renewed inspection framework, all inspections are now led by His Majesty’s Inspectors (HMIs) or by Ofsted Inspectors (OIs) who have previously served as HMIs.

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About this inspection

During the inspection, inspectors spoke with the new headteacher, the deputy designated safeguarding leader, the proprietor body’s sole director, and a person who carries out certain human resources functions on the proprietor’s behalf.

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About this inspection

The proposed school intends to cater for pupils with SEMH needs. Most pupils are expected to have an education, health and care plan. Leaders anticipate that most pupils will be looked after by a local authority and will typically reside in care homes operated by an associated company linked to the sole director.

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About this inspection

The proposed school is already operating as an unregistered alternative provision. At present, the alternative provision solely provides for pupils in the care of a local authority. It provides part-time education for a maximum of 15 hours per week. There are currently 2 pupils registered at the school. The earliest date of registration of these pupils was not confirmed. No teaching was observed and no pupils were present during the inspection.

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Lead inspector

David Spruce His Majesty’s Inspector Oaktree Academy Centre Ltd, 9 April 2026 9

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Chair of the proprietor body

Oaktree Academy Centre Ltd Matthew Bond Headteacher Natalie Moore Type of school Other independent school Capacity 12

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compulsory school age on roll

Provider’s current position: 0 Provider’s proposal: 12

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compulsory school age on roll

Provider’s current position: 2 Provider’s proposal: 0

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disabilities on roll

Provider’s current position: 2 Provider’s proposal: 12

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authority

Provider’s current position: 0 Provider’s proposal: 12

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authority

Age range of pupils Provider’s current position: 11–16 Provider’s proposal: 11–16 Gender of pupils Provider’s current position: mixed Provider’s proposal: mixed

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per week

Provider’s current position: 15 Provider’s proposal: 32.5

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per week

Provider’s current position: 15 Provider’s proposal: 32.5

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teaching staff

Provider’s current position: 1 Provider’s proposal: 3 Number of part-time teaching staff Provider’s current position: 0 Provider’s proposal: 0 Annual fees for day pupils £60,000 Email address nmoore@oaktreeacademy.co.uk Oaktree Academy Centre Ltd, 9 April 2026 10

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

 2(1) The standard in this paragraph is met if- – 2(1)(a) the proprietor ensures that a written policy on the curriculum, supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work, which provides for the matters specified in sub-paragraph (2) is drawn up and implemented effectively; and – 2(1)(b) the written policy, plans and schemes of work- – 2(1)(b)(i) take into account the ages, aptitudes and needs of all pupils, including those pupils with an EHC plan; – 2A(1)(g) publishes a copy of the statement on a website and provides a copy of the statement free of charge to anyone who asks for one.  3 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that the teaching at the school- – 3(a) enables pupils to acquire new knowledge and make good progress according to their ability so that they increase their understanding and develop their skills in the subjects taught; – 3(c) involves well planned lessons and effective teaching methods, activities

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Part 1. Quality of education provided

and management of class time; – 3(d) shows a good understanding of the aptitudes, needs and prior attainments of the pupils, and ensures that these are taken into account in the planning of lessons; – 3(f) utilises effectively classroom resources of a good quality, quantity and range; – 3(g) demonstrates that a framework is in place to assess pupils’ work regularly and thoroughly and use information from that assessment to plan teaching so that pupils can progress.  4 The standard in this paragraph is met where the proprietor ensures that a framework for pupil performance to be evaluated, by reference to the school’s own aims as provided to parents or national norms, or to both, is in place. Oaktree Academy Centre Ltd, 9 April 2026 11

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Part 3. Welfare, health and safety of pupils

 7 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that- – 7(a) arrangements are made to safeguard and promote the welfare of pupils at the school; and – 7(b) such arrangements have regard to any guidance issued by the Secretary of State.  11 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that relevant health and safety laws are complied with by the drawing up and effective implementation of a written health and safety policy.  12 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures compliance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.  15 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that an admission and attendance register is maintained in accordance with the School Attendance (Pupil Registration) (England) Regulations 2024.

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Part 4. Suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors

 18(2) The standard in this paragraph is met if- – 18(2)(c) the proprietor carries out appropriate checks to confirm in respect of each such person- – 18(2)(c)(ii) the person’s medical fitness; – 18(3) The checks referred to in sub-paragraphs (2)(c) and (except where sub- paragraph (4) applies) (2)(e) must be completed before a person’s appointment.  21(1) The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor keeps a register which shows such of the information referred to in sub-paragraphs (3) to (7) as is applicable to the school in question.

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Part 5. Premises of and accommodation at schools

 25 The standard in this paragraph is met if the proprietor ensures that the school premises and the accommodation and facilities provided therein are maintained to a standard such that, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of pupils are ensured.

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Part 6. Provision of information

 32(2) The information specified in this sub-paragraph is- – 32(2)(a) the school’s address and telephone number and the name of the head teacher; Oaktree Academy Centre Ltd, 9 April 2026 12 – 32(2)(b)(ii) where the proprietor is a body of persons, the address and telephone number of its registered or principal office; – 32(3)(d) particulars of arrangements for meeting the standards contained in paragraphs 9, 10, 11 and 13; – 32(3)(e) particulars of the school’s academic performance during the preceding school year, including the results of any public examinations.

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Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

 34(1) The standard about the quality of leadership and management is met if the proprietor ensures that persons with leadership and management responsibilities at the school- – 34(1)(a) demonstrate good skills and knowledge appropriate to their role so that the independent school standards are met consistently; – 34(1)(b) fulfil their responsibilities effectively so that the independent school standards are met consistently. Oaktree Academy Centre Ltd, 9 April 2026 13 providing education and skills for children and learners of all ages, and inspects and regulates services that care for children and young people

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Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

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Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

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Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

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