Waterside School

Waterside School, 9 September 2026 1 Waterside School 65b George Eliot Road, Foleshill, Coventry, West Midlands CV1 4HT

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report:

Overall outcome The school is likely to meet all the independent school standards if it is registered

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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 (ISS) 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 ISS first. Under part 8, the proprietor is required to ensure that the school meets all of the ISS 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 developed a clear vision for the proposed school that focuses on providing a specialist setting for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). There are suitable arrangements in place to promote and check pupils’ achievement, wellbeing and personal development. The chair of the proprietor body demonstrates a secure understanding of statutory responsibilities. The proposed school has created systems and procedures to support compliance with the independent school standards (the standards). The proprietor’s plans to establish a governing body with a range of skills, including education experience, are intended to provide additional scrutiny and challenge to leaders.

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Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

Senior school leaders have already been appointed. They bring a breadth of educational and leadership experience. This ensures that there is appropriate understanding of curriculum planning, implementation and adaptation to suit SEND pupils’ needs in the classroom. Leaders have considered carefully how they Waterside School, 9 September 2026 2 will tailor support for pupils through individualised timetables and regular review processes. They intend to appoint further staff with suitable qualifications and experience.

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Part 8. Quality of leadership in and management of schools

The proprietor has ensured that the standards in this part are likely to be met if the Department for Education (DfE) decides to register the provider as an independent school.

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Curriculum

The proprietor has put in place a curriculum that covers the required areas of learning and is designed to meet pupils’ needs. Appropriate policies, plans and schemes of work are in place so that teachers know what to teach, and in what order.

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Curriculum

The curriculum includes structured approaches to supporting pupils who are at an early stage of reading, including the use of a recognised phonics programme. These arrangements are likely to support pupils in developing secure literacy skills. Leaders have considered carefully how teaching will be adapted to meet pupils’ education, health and care plan outcomes, their prior experience of education and individual starting points. This reflects a clear understanding of pupils’ needs and is likely to support engagement and readiness to learn.

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Curriculum

Most curriculum subjects provide opportunities for pupils to work towards GCSE qualifications. Leaders have also ensured there will be vocational pathways that will allow pupils to gain alternative recognised qualifications.

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Curriculum

Leaders have embedded preparation for adulthood throughout the curriculum. Pupils will receive appropriate personal, social, health and economic education, including relationships and sex education. Arrangements are in place to consult parents and carers about this provision. There are plans in place for pupils to receive careers guidance, tailored to their individual needs. Pupils will have access to independent careers advice that becomes more individualised as they refine their plans and ambitions over time. The proposed school intends to organise relevant work experience opportunities with local employers from a range of professions.

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Teaching

Leaders have created staffing plans and professional development arrangements that indicate they have considered how teaching will be delivered effectively. Waterside School, 9 September 2026 3 The proprietor intends to appoint suitably experienced and qualified staff. For example, they intend to recruit a primary specialist, who will share their expertise in delivering early reading support and phonics with other staff.

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Teaching

The headteacher intends to develop a quality assurance cycle with regular formal and informal checks on teaching and learning that will identify staff training needs. Leaders have established comprehensive induction and professional development arrangements for staff, including training relating to supporting pupils with SEND, adaptive teaching and positive behaviour support.

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Teaching

Leaders have created schemes of work to provide a framework for teachers to adapt from, ensuring learning is progressive. Small teaching groups will allow staff to develop positive relationships with pupils and provide effective support for learning, behaviour and wellbeing. The planned use of baseline and regular assessment will ensure that teaching will be informed by pupils’ starting points and progress. This is likely to support effective learning over time.

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Assessment

Suitable arrangements are in place to assess and monitor pupils’ attainment, progress and wider development. The proprietor intends to use baseline and formative assessment and tracking systems to monitor progress and inform teaching. Comprehensive systems are in place to review the needs of pupils with education, health and care plans regularly. This will help ensure that pupils receive suitable support and provision.

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Assessment

The standards in this part are likely to be met if the DfE decides to register the provider as an independent school.

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pupils

Leaders have planned a range of opportunities to promote pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development (SMSC). These are embedded within the curriculum through trips, planned lessons, opportunities to debate and discuss issues and enrichment opportunities. Pupils will participate in regular activities, such as enrichment afternoons, each week. These will be linked to a weekly theme identified and discussed each Monday morning. This will ensure the enrichment is purposeful, progressive and appropriate. The proposed SMSC curriculum will prepare pupils for life in modern Britain by ensuring pupils learn about important topical issues, fundamental British values, different cultures and a range of viewpoints in an age-appropriate manner. Pupils will develop an understanding of equality, mutual respect and tolerance and develop an appreciation of diversity and the wider community. Waterside School, 9 September 2026 4

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pupils

Leaders have planned a range of opportunities for pupils to engage with the wider Community, including local charity work, visits to places of worship, the library and theatres. Such opportunities will help pupils to develop confidence and understand their locality and the wider world. Social times, including staff and pupils coming together for meals, will support the sense of belonging that the proposed school intends to foster. Leaders intend to provide opportunities for pupils to share opinions, including a school council once sufficient pupil numbers are on roll. This will give pupils an opportunity to become involved in decisions about how their school develops.

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pupils

The standards in this part are likely to be met if the DfE decides to register the provider as an independent school.

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Safeguarding

The proprietor has established safeguarding systems that are aligned with current statutory guidance. The proprietor and those staff currently employed by the proposed school understand how to establish and sustain an effective safeguarding culture. Leaders responsible for safeguarding have received appropriate training, including in safer recruitment. Leaders have made careful plans for staff induction and the provision of weekly safeguarding updates. These arrangements are likely to help staff maintain an up-to-date understanding of their safeguarding responsibilities.

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Safeguarding

A suitable safeguarding policy is in place. This is available on request and will be published on the school website once it is operational.

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Safeguarding

Leaders have considered the possible local contextual risks for the pupils they intend to admit. They have made plans to include teaching about these risks through the planned curriculum. Safeguarding information will be recorded electronically and reviewed regularly by leaders. The proprietor will receive regular information about the provision for safeguarding at the proposed school. Leaders intend to analyse safeguarding information routinely to identify patterns and emerging concerns so these can be swiftly addressed.

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Behaviour and supervision of pupils

The proposed school has developed a behaviour approach that is appropriate to the needs of the intended cohort. Leaders have established clear routines and expectations to help pupils behave responsibly and engage positively in school life The behaviour policy considers pupils’ social, emotional and mental health needs and clearly outlines the processes for communication with parents and carers. Leaders intend for any incidents to be recorded centrally, including actions taken Waterside School, 9 September 2026 5 and resolutions. Staff will receive appropriate training to support them in understanding and managing behaviour safely and consistently.

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Behaviour and supervision of pupils

Planned staffing levels, including high staff-to-pupil ratios and small class sizes, are likely to ensure that pupils are appropriately supervised throughout the school day. Leaders have also considered supervision during breaktimes and at the start and end of the school day. These arrangements provide appropriate assurance that pupils will feel safe.

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Anti-bullying

The proprietor has developed an anti-bullying approach that sets clear expectations for how bullying will be prevented, identified and addressed. Planned curriculum content, particularly through PSHE and SMSC, supports pupils in understanding healthy relationships, which is likely to reduce the risk of bullying behaviours.

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Anti-bullying

The proprietor will ensure staff receive guidance on responding to incidents should they occur. The school intends to respond to incidents with support for both victim and perpetrator. Leaders intend to monitor incidents carefully and use information from any concerns to adapt curriculum and pastoral support where necessary. These arrangements are likely to ensure that any incidents are addressed promptly and effectively.

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Health and safety, fire and first aid

The proprietor has taken appropriate steps to ensure that health and safety arrangements are likely to meet the requirements of the standards. The Health and Safety policy considers the needs of learners with SEND and explains how risks will be managed on a day-to-day basis The proprietor has planned for regular checks to be made on the buildings and equipment. The premises are generally well maintained.

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Health and safety, fire and first aid

The first-aid policy provides suitable guidance for staff. First-aid equipment is readily available, clearly labelled and is appropriately stocked. Current members of staff have already completed first-aid training, and leaders have appropriate plans in place to ensure that additional staff are trained as the school grows. Suitable systems are in place for the safe storage and administration of medication including adrenaline auto-injectors and inhalers.

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Health and safety, fire and first aid

The proprietor has ensured that the premises comply with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. A comprehensive fire safety policy is in place. Clear escape routes are supported by ample signage. An external fire safety risk assessment has been undertaken of the proposed site to ensure it is compliant. Essential equipment, including fire alarms, fire doors and fire extinguishers, is Waterside School, 9 September 2026 6 installed. Internal and external ongoing checks are planned for this equipment to ensure these remain well maintained.

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Admissions and attendance

A detailed admissions policy and set of processes have been drawn up by the proposed school. Leaders are clear about what information the admissions register must contain to meet statutory requirements.

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Admissions and attendance

The school’s attendance policy clearly outlines the procedures for recording attendance, which adheres to current statutory guidance, as well as strategies to promote positive attendance and support pupils to attend well. Leaders demonstrate an understanding that attendance must be monitored closely, particularly given the expected needs of the pupils, including those with a history of disrupted education.

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Risk assessment

Leaders have developed a range of risk assessments that identify appropriate control measures and demonstrate a clear understanding of how risks will be reduced and monitored. Leaders understand the importance of reviewing and updating risk assessments regularly to ensure that they remain effective and responsive to pupils’ needs. Leaders also plan to create personalised risk assessments, where needed, for pupils when they first join the school. They will identify pupils’ triggers and associated risks, alongside strategies to reduce potential harm.

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Use of restrictive interventions

The proprietor has ensured that the proposed school has clear procedures in place for the rare occasions when a member of staff restrains, secludes or immobilises a pupil in order to keep individuals and the wider school community safe. Leaders have developed a policy for how staff will manage restrictive interventions. The policy explains how such incidents will be recorded and how staff will be trained and supported. This will mean that staff feel confident using de-escalation processes and ensure that restrictive physical intervention is used as a last resort.

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Use of restrictive interventions

The standards in this part are likely to be met if the DfE decides to register the provider as an independent school. Waterside School, 9 September 2026 7

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

Leaders involved in recruitment, including the chair of the proprietor body, are trained in safer recruitment procedures. This enables them to apply safeguarding expectations confidently and consistently throughout the process. The school’s recruitment processes are well considered and reflect the latest guidance. Clear processes are in place to ensure that pre-employment checks, including references and online checks, are completed prior to staff commencing work. The proprietor does not intend to employ supply staff. However, leaders understand the checks that would be required should supply staff be employed in the future.

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The single central record of these recruitment checks

The proprietor body has established an electronic single central record. Leaders demonstrate a secure understanding of the information that must be recorded and monitored on the record. Leaders recognise the importance of maintaining accuracy and keeping the record up to date and the proprietor has arrangements in place to review this record regularly.

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The single central record of these recruitment checks

The standards in this part are likely to be met if the DfE decides to register the provider as an independent school.

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and showers

The proposed school building provides suitable toilet and washing facilities, including an accessible toilet. These facilities are sufficient for the intended number and age range of pupils and are appropriately located across the site, enabling easy access throughout the school day. All toilet cubicles can be secured from the inside. Running water is available throughout the building and water temperatures do not present a scalding risk. Appropriate shower facilities are available on site. Overall, these arrangements are suitable and are likely to ensure that pupils’ dignity, health and hygiene are appropriately supported.

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Medical room and accommodation for pupils’ therapy needs

Leaders have established a suitable medical room for the short-term care of pupils, who may become unwell. The room contains suitable facilities to support pupils with short-term medical needs, including a sink. It provides convenient access to toilet facilities and has been furnished appropriately to support pupils’ comfort and wellbeing. Waterside School, 9 September 2026 8

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needs of pupils

The proprietor has ensured that the site is generally well maintained, clean and organised, which contributes positively to a safe learning environment. The accommodation is suitable for the proposed number and needs of pupils. The site is securely fenced, including alongside the adjacent canal. There are appropriate arrangements in place to manage access to the premises. In addition, the proprietor has considered how to manage pupils’ safe arrival and departure.

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Lighting and acoustic conditions

The proprietor has ensured that teaching spaces are well lit with natural and artificial light. External lighting enables pupils, staff and visitors to move safely around the site during periods of reduced daylight. The rooms are suitable acoustically for teaching. The overall site is very quiet during the school day providing an environment that minimises excessive noise and supports pupils who may be sensitive to sensory stimuli. These conditions are likely to contribute positively to pupils’ ability to engage in learning and feel comfortable within the environment.

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Outdoor space

Leaders have ensured that pupils have access to secure outdoor areas that are suitable for play, socialising and physical activity. The playground is spacious enough to accommodate the proposed number of pupils.

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Outdoor space

The standards in this part are likely to be met if the DfE decides to register the provider as an independent school.

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Part 6. Provision of information

The proposed school does not yet have a website. The proprietor intends to publish a website once the school receives approval to open. The proprietor has established appropriate systems to ensure that required information is available to parents and carers, and other stakeholders on request. All requested policies and documentation were provided during the inspection and are intended for publication on the school’s website once this is operational. The proposed school’s policies are current, aligned with statutory guidance and include appropriate review cycles. This includes policies for how the school intends to manage and record incidents of physical restraint. Leaders have established suitable arrangements to report pupils’ attainment, progress and emotional wellbeing to parents and carers through twice-yearly reports. Leaders understand their responsibilities to contribute to annual reviews of pupils’ education, health and

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Part 6. Provision of information

Waterside School, 9 September 2026 9 care plans. Leaders have developed appropriate plans to provide information to local authorities and other professionals when required. The proprietor also understands the requirement to publish the school’s academic results, and the number of complaints received each year.

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Part 6. Provision of information

The standards in this part are likely to be met if the DfE decides to register the provider as an independent school.

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Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled

The proposed school has a complaints policy that meets requirements. It sets out clearly the stages through which complaints will be considered, including an opportunity for concerns to be resolved informally before progressing to the formal stages of the procedure. The policy is supported with comprehensive plans for recording complaints, including a complaints log and clear oversight processes. The proprietor has identified appropriate arrangements for the involvement of an independent person at the later stages of the complaints process where required.

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Part 7. Manner in which complaints are handled

The standards in this part are likely to be met if the DfE decides to register the provider as an independent school.

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The school’s accessibility plan

The proprietor has a suitable accessibility plan in place. The plan demonstrates the school’s understanding of the duty to improve, over time, access to the curriculum, the physical environment, and information for pupils with disabilities.

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The school’s accessibility plan

The proposed school is likely to meet schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010 if the DfE decides to register the provider as an independent school.

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About this inspection

The inspector carried out this inspection under section 99 of the Education and Skills Act 2008, at the request of the registration authority for independent schools. 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. Waterside School, 9 September 2026 10 The inspector spoke with the chair of the proprietor body, the headteacher and the pastoral lead during the inspection.

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About this inspection

The inspector confirmed the following information about the school:

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About this inspection

The proposed school is located at 65b George Eliot Road, Foleshill, Coventry, West Midlands CV1 4HT.

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About this inspection

It intends to provide full-time education for up to 40 pupils aged 9 to 19 years with special educational needs and/or disabilities, including those with autism, social, emotional and mental health needs, and moderate learning difficulties. All pupils are expected to have education, health and care plans and to be placed and funded by local authorities.

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About this inspection

The school does not intend to use any alternative provision.

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About this proposed school

Proprietor body Waterside School Limited

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About this proposed school

Type of school Other independent special school

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Number of part-time teaching staff Provider’s proposal: 0

Email address office@waterside-school.co.uk

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Number of part-time teaching staff Provider’s proposal: 0

Website none Waterside School, 9 September 2026 12 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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Number of part-time teaching staff Provider’s proposal: 0

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 .

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Number of part-time teaching staff Provider’s proposal: 0

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 .

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Number of part-time teaching staff Provider’s proposal: 0

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Number of part-time teaching staff Provider’s proposal: 0

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

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