Boarding School
Framlingham College
Framlingham
Suffolk
IP13 9EY
30th September 2003 Commission for Social Care Inspection Launched in April 2004, the Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) is the single inspectorate for social care in England.
The Commission combines the work formerly done by the Social Services Inspectorate (SSI), the SSI/Audit Commission Joint Review Team and the National Care Standards Commission.
The role of CSCI is to: • Promote improvement in social care • Inspect all social care - for adults and children - in the public, private and voluntary sectors • Publish annual reports to Parliament on the performance of social care and on the state of the social care market • Inspect and assess ‘Value for Money’ of council social services • Hold performance statistics on social care • Publish the ‘star ratings’ for council social services • Register and inspect services against national standards • Host the Children’s Rights Director role.
Inspection Methods & Findings SECTION B of this report summarises key findings and evidence from this inspection. The following 4-point scale is used to indicate the extent to which standards have been met or not met by placing the assessed level alongside the phrase "Standard met?"
The 4-point scale ranges from: 4 - Standard Exceeded (Commendable) 3 - Standard Met (No Shortfalls) 2 - Standard Almost Met (Minor Shortfalls) 1 - Standard Not Met (Major Shortfalls) 'O' or blank in the 'Standard met?' box denotes standard not assessed on this occasion. '9' in the 'Standard met?' box denotes standard not applicable. 'X' is used where a percentage value or numerical value is not applicable.
Framlingham College Page 1
SCHOOL INFORMATION
Name of School Tel No: Framlingham College 01728 723789 Address Fax No: Framlingham, Suffolk, IP13 9EY 01728 724546
Email Address [email protected]
Name of Governing body, Person or Authority responsible for the school Mr A W M Fane, Hoo House, Hoo, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP13 7QJ Name of Head Mrs G M Randall
NCSC Classification Boarding School
Type of school Co-educational Independent Day & Boarding School for pupils 13 – 18 years.
Date of last boarding welfare inspection 13/10/00
Framlingham College Page 2 Date of Inspection Visit 30th September 2003 ID Code
Time of Inspection Visit 10:00 am
Name of NCSC Inspector 1 David Welch 077308
Name of NCSC Inspector 2 Cecilia McKillop
Name of NCSC Inspector 3 N/a
Name of NCSC Inspector 4 N/a Name of Boarding Sector Specialist Inspector (if applicable): Mrs Jane Laing Name of Lay Assessor (if applicable) Lay assessors are members of the public independent of the NCSC. They accompany inspectors on some inspections and bring a different perspective to the inspection process. N/a
Was this inspection conducted alongside an ISI or OfSTED inspection as part of a Joint Whole School Inspection? NO Name of Establishment Representative at the time of inspection MR LAWRENCE
Framlingham College Page 3
CONTENTS
Introduction to Report and Inspection Inspection visits Brief Description of the school and Boarding Provision
Part A: Summary of Inspection Findings What the school does well in Boarding Welfare What the school should do better in Boarding Welfare Conclusions and overview of findings on Boarding Welfare
Notifications to Local Education Authority or Secretary of State Implementation of Recommended Actions from last inspection Recommended Actions from this inspection Advisory Recommendations from this inspection
Part B: Inspection Methods Used & Findings Inspection Methods Used 1. Welfare Policies and Procedures 2. Organisation and Management 3. Welfare Support to Boarders 4. Staffing 5. Premises
Part C: Lay Assessor’s Summary (where applicable)
Part D: Head’s Response D.1. Comments D.2. Action Plan Status D.3. Agreement
Framlingham College Page 4
INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION
Boarding schools are subject to inspection by the National Care Standards Commission (NCSC) to determine whether the welfare of children (i.e. those aged under 18) is adequately safeguarded and promoted while they are accommodated by the school.
Inspections assess the extent to which the school is meeting the National Minimum Standards for Boarding Schools, published by the Secretary of State under Section 87C of the Children Act 1989, and other relevant requirements of the Children Act 1989 as amended.
Inspections are carried out by the NCSC, and in most cases the inspection team includes a specialist in boarding provision working, or with experience of working, in the boarding sector. Boarding welfare inspections by NCSC may also be carried out in conjunction with a full inspection of the school by the Independent Schools Inspectorate or OfSTED, so that the two inspections together constitute a Joint Whole School Inspection of the school. In such cases, a joint summary of main findings and recommendations from both inspections will also be available.
This document summarises the inspection findings of the NCSC in respect of Framlingham College.
The report follows the format of the National Minimum Standards and the numbering shown in the report corresponds to that of the standards.
The report will show the following:
• Inspection methods used • Key findings and evidence • Overall ratings in relation to the standards • Recommended Action by the school • Advisory recommendations on boarding welfare • Summary of the findings • Report of the lay assessor (where relevant) • The Head’s response and proposed action plan to address findings
INSPECTION VISITS
Inspections are undertaken in line with the agreed regulatory framework under the Care Standards Act 2000 and the Children Act 1989 as amended, with additional visits as required. The report represents the inspector's findings from the evidence found at the specified inspection dates.
Framlingham College Page 5
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SERVICES PROVIDED. Framlingham College is an independent school that caters for day and boarding pupils between the ages of 13 and 18 years. There is a prep school, Brandeston Hall, on a separate site a few miles away. The aims of the college state that it welcomes pupils from a wide range of backgrounds and differing abilities.
The college buildings are a mixture of original period premises and newer extensions and additions. The college is prominently situated on the edge of the town, but close enough for pupils to walk there in a few minutes. All the local amenities are within a short distance of the college grounds. The outlook from the front of the school’s elevated site is spectacular, taking in the Mere and Framlingham Castle.
The site is split by a road that can at times be quite busy during the day. Three of the boarding houses are located across this road. The Head has made strenuous efforts to persuade the local authority to provide a safe crossing for staff and pupils, but to date has received no positive response.
There is a sports hall, squash courts, music school, technology and science wing, extensive playing areas, including an all-weather, floodlit surface, a chapel and a swimming pool. In recent years considerable improvements have been made to the buildings to provide a covered courtyard and a ‘piazza’. At the same time there has been a general upgrading of the building, to include specialist double-glazing. The college is coming to the end of an extensive programme of refurbishment of boarding accommodation.
The college provides full, weekly and ‘flexi’ boarding with free ‘exeat’ arrangements at weekends. There is a full programme of weekend activities.
The college does not arrange guardians for any of its pupils and neither are lodgings used during term time.
The college caters for pupils from overseas or whose families are living abroad.
Boarders live in one of 7 boarding houses, 4 for boys and 3 for girls. Each has a resident House Master or Mistress and 1 resident Tutor. In each boarding house there are also a non-resident Matron and non-resident Tutors drawn from academic and support staff.
The college has a policy of integrating its day pupils with boarders.
The college has a sanatorium with two trained nurses. There is a GP practice close by.
Prior to the full welfare inspection, National Care Standards Commission inspectors had the benefit of documentation provided by the college. The inspecting team included a Boarding School Professional Inspector (BSPI).
Framlingham College Page 6
PART A SUMMARY OF INSPECTION FINDINGS
WHAT THE SCHOOL DOES WELL IN BOARDING WELFARE The Lead Inspector wrote to each parent with a child boarding at the college inviting them to comment on what the school does well, in their opinion, and in what areas it could improve. Largely, the 31 responses received back from parents were positive. They especially liked the way the school fosters a warm, homely atmosphere, the high standard of care and accommodation, the quality of house staff, the range of activities, and the college’s approach to drugs and alcohol.
Some parents were particularly appreciative of the way staff keep them in touch with what is going on in the lives of their children. There are good arrangements for children to contact their parents – by e-mail, mobile telephone, fax etc.
The sporting, musical and social opportunities were commented on very favourably. Parents were keen to point out the family nature of the college and the support given by house staff, with what was described as ‘sensible discipline’.
Parents said that the college has assisted their children to become more self-reliant and confident. They appreciated the welfare support for boarders and the encouragement of pride in house and school.
Inspectors found that boarders have a wide range of people to whom they can go if they are unhappy. Pupils identified parents and friends as the most likely to be approached, but also identified tutors, house staff, senior pupils, ‘younger’ and ‘older’ staff as well at the Head.
Risk assessments are carried out well and there are very good policies and procedures for managing trips and off site outings. There are policies and procedures for crisis management.
Boarders mentioned in particular the way that they are inducted into the life of the school.
The school has demonstrated that it acts appropriately in child protection matters. Staff clearly knew what to do if a child made a disclosure to them.
There are clear lines of responsibility.
There has been a recent programme of refurbishment and upgrading of the accommodation.
Several comments were made by parents along the lines of ‘the happiest school in East Anglia. Every credit to them and long may it continue’ and ‘ the support the children give to each other has to stem from the example given by the teaching staff around them’.
WHAT THE SCHOOL SHOULD DO BETTER IN BOARDING WELFARE
Framlingham College Page 7 Parents commented less than positively, and somewhat contradictorily across the group, about the lack of communication by some house staff. They would welcome more information and suggestions were made about placing updates on the college website so that parents are aware of weekend activities, sporting events etc.
Bullying was certainly an issue. A number of boarders brought to the attention of inspectors their unhappiness at been bullied. They acknowledged that in any school there was likely to be teasing and some name-calling. What distressed them was the continual verbal harassment, and in some cases the racial nature of what was being said. Inspectors noted the level of what they identified as ‘changing room banter’ and joking. If boarders are part of the ‘in crowd’ they are more able to take this and give as good as they get, but more sensitive children, or those not used to coming back with a smart comment, are likely to feel isolated and upset and this seemed to be the case with quite a number of youngsters.
What quite surprised inspectors was that some physical bullying was reported as still going on. Pupils and parents referred to a recent incident, now satisfactorily dealt with by the Head and her senior colleagues, which involved some very rough horseplay by older boarders after a house event. Some younger boys were intimidated. Those responsible were punished. One parent said that anti-bullying policies had been changed after this incident last year and she hoped this would make a significant difference. The Head attracted some positive comment over the manner in which she dealt with the issue once it was brought to her attention, but some junior staff appear, in parents’ eyes at least, to have downplayed the matter, describing it merely in terms of ‘pranks’ and high spirits’ when small boys received considerable bruising.
Parents commented on the level of theft that appears to have gone on in some boarding houses. Pembroke girls said that police had been brought in after incidents of thieving. Other pupils complained to inspectors about having their personal possessions stolen.
The food attracted some negative comment from pupils and from their parents. In truth, inspectors who ate a number of meals with pupils, found the meals to be very acceptable, with a hot and cold and a vegetarian choice available. Some items were lacking in taste. Pupils, somewhat surprisingly maybe, said that chips, or variations thereof, appeared on the menu, particularly the supper menu, rather too often for their liking. Some boys complained of small portions. This was a comment reflected by others, who said that they were not allowed to take certain items from the counter, and conceded by staff. Apparently, there has been some confusion in the eyes of catering staff who seem to think that children are restricted in what combination of food items they are allowed. When this was brought to Mrs Randall’s attention she said that immediate steps would be taken to regularise the situation and to inform all catering staff such that children would be allowed a free choice. At the feedback session the advantages and disadvantages of contract catering arrangements were discussed. Some parents and pupils referred to the lack of ‘healthy eating’ options, such as fruit.
Parents and pupils commented on the physical provision, and while acknowledging that the college is making efforts to improve the fabric, furniture and fittings, they said that things could be better. The Head acknowledged comments about some ‘overcrowding’ in places.
There was some dissatisfaction with the advice given to boarders by Sanatorium staff over sporting injuries.
Parents recognise the ‘thinness’ of staffing levels at times. Framlingham College Page 8
The college had little written record of action taken in regard to plans for isolated and/or vulnerable pupils who have particular welfare needs. Framlingham College staff do not adopt the ‘Care Plan’ approach (that inspectors acknowledge is something of a social work concept) that allows inspection of the ‘audit trail’ from identification of a vulnerable pupil through to the progress of an action plan to respond to them. This work was likely being done, but is probably not systematic and certainly could not be evidenced.
Several parents, and quite a few boarders, mentioned the issue of smoking. Parents tend to deplore the college’s perceived inability to ensure that smoking does not occur and a small number of children, too, wanted smoking stopped. A far bigger number wanted some compromise solution that would allow them to smoke in moderation in identified areas so that the activity had some legitimacy. Currently, a great deal of time and energy is expended by staff in hunting down miscreants and by pupils endeavouring not to be caught.
On balance, the comments made to National Care Standards Commission inspectors by both parents and boarders about the integration of day and boarding pupils were against the practice. One parent expressed strong views, saying it was ‘intolerable’ as the boarder’s bedroom is his or her private space and use by day pupils is ‘intrusive and disruptive’.
Ease of access to boarding houses was an issue with some parents and with boarders.
Inspectors were uneasy with the college’s approach to drug testing that involves the taking of a sample with a ‘wipe’. If this is to be done, they felt that it should be carried out by trained staff under controlled and sterile conditions using the appropriate protective equipment.
CONCLUSIONS AND OVERVIEW OF FINDINGS ON BOARDING WELFARE
Framlingham College Page 9 Of the 52 National Minimum Standards Framlingham College met 41 of them, 3 commendably. Three standards were not applicable and 1 was not assessed during this inspection. Six standards, having minor shortfalls, were not met. There was, in addition, 1 major shortfall.
During the inspection almost half of the boarders were spoken with either individually, in small randomly selected groups, on tours of boarding houses and recreational areas and spontaneously around the campus.
Generally, inspectors were impressed with the manner in which pupils related to one another and to staff. While a number of pupils mentioned to inspectors the matter of bullying, they did not themselves observe anything of this nature. All pupils seemed to be getting on with each other well and there was a level of innocent intimacy that was refreshing to see. Some freedom was allowed to pupils to meet after prep and be together. No problems seemed to result from this and the Head’s innovative approach appears to be vindicated.
Similarly, the college’s policy of allowing unlimited access to mobile phones is one that seems to be paying off in that students responded to rules about not using them during lessons or prep. Contact with parents and friends is important to children living away from home and inspectors felt that Mrs Randall’s sympathetic attitude in this regard is refreshing, and to be welcomed.
The college met the overwhelming majority of standards, but scored particularly well in respect of the range of people available to boarders who are unhappy, to the induction and introduction of new pupils to the boarding experience, to the responsible attitude towards risks and hazards and the management of off site trips.
There were minor shortfalls relating to ‘drug testing’ methods, evidencing the approach to dealing with vulnerable pupils with welfare problems, the high level of theft, the dissatisfaction among pupils about some aspects of catering, the ‘thinness’ at times of staffing levels and the absence of window restrictors above ground floor throughout some boarding accommodation.
There was a major shortfall regarding the effectiveness of anti-bullying procedures, which flies in the face of what inspectors observed when boarders seem to get along with each other so well.
In law, the National Care Standards Commission has a responsibility, after inspection, to bring to the attention of the Secretary of State any areas in which the proprietors are felt not to be fulfilling their duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of pupils accommodated. While bullying is an issue that the college must get to grips with, the NCSC does not feel that this, or any other matter, is sufficiently serious to merit formal notification to the college’s licensing body.
All three members of the inspecting team valued the time they spent at Framlingham College and extend thanks to the Head, her senior colleagues, house staff and all the boarders who co-operated so enthusiastically with the process.
Framlingham College Page 10
NOTIFICATIONS TO LOCAL EDUCATION AUTHORITY OR SECRETARY OF STATE
Is Notification of any failure to safeguard and promote welfare to be made NO by the National Care Standards Commission to the Local Education Authority or Department for Education and Skills under section 87(4) of the Children Act 1989 arising from this inspection?
Notification to be made to: Local Education Authority NO Secretary of State NO
The grounds for any Notification to be made are: N/a
IMPLEMENTATION OF RECOMMENDED ACTIONS FROM LAST INSPECTION
Were the Recommended Actions from the last Inspection visit fully implemented? NA
If No, the findings of this inspection on any Recommended Actions not implemented are listed below:
No Standard* Recommended Actions Timescale for action N/a
Framlingham College Page 11
RECOMMENDED ACTIONS IDENTIFIED FROM THIS INSPECTION
Action Plan: The Head is requested to provide the Commission with an Action Plan, which indicates how Recommended Action and any advisory recommendations are to be addressed. This action plan will be made available on request to the Area Office.
RECOMMENDED ACTION Identified below are the actions recommended on issues addressed in the main body of the report in order to safeguard and promote the welfare of boarders adequately in accordance with the National Minimum Standards for Boarding Schools. The references below are to the relevant Standards. Non-implementation of recommended action can lead to future statutory notification of failure to safeguard and promote welfare. No Standard* Recommended Action Timescale for action 1 BS2 At the time of the inspection a significant number of children Immediate. reported not feeling as safe as they should as they were being subjected to some physical harassment, verbal taunting and/or name-calling and some racial abuse. It was the continual nature of this that they said got them down. Those responsible for management should re-visit the effectiveness of the college’s anti-bullying policy and procedures.
2 BS6 Those responsible for management should look at the Immediate. propriety of administering drug testing.
3 BS15 Sanatorium staff should obtain, and appropriately maintain, Immediate a controlled drugs book in respect of any controlled and on- medication kept on the premises. going
4 BS17 Those responsible for management should introduce a Immediate. robust procedure, that mimics a care planning approach, for dealing with the needs of especially vulnerable and/or isolated pupils that can be evidenced in records.
5 BS24 Those responsible for management should ensure that Immediate catering policies, procedures and methods do not militate and on- against pupils having sufficient choice and quantity of food. going
6 BS31 A fresh look at the staffing roster should be made with a Immediate view to ensuring that the ‘thin’ times identified in the body of the report are adequately covered.
7 BS38 All the required recruitment checks should be made and the Immediate. appropriate records kept on the personal files of staff appointed.
Framlingham College Page 12 8 BS47 Those responsible for management should ensure that all Immediate windows above the ground floor are fitted with window restrictors.
ADVISORY RECOMMENDATIONS Identified below are advisory recommendations on welfare matters addressed in the main body of the report and based on the National Minimum Standards, made for consideration by the school. No Refer to Recommendation Standard*
9 BS1 A separate statement of boarding principles would be of benefit.
10 BS3 The Head should consider sending Sanatorium staff on child protection training outsourced from the college.
BS5 The Head may wish to consider the suggestion that she introduces an ‘I want you to know’ form to allow boarders to bring to the attention of house 11 staff any matter that is bothering them or they want to complain about without bringing to bear the whole complaints procedure. It is rather like a suggestion box.
12 BS25 Some alternative arrangements for the storage of food items by boarders could be of benefit.
13 The Head may wish to remind tutors about the protocols when taking small groups to their private accommodation.
14 Reminding those children who are required to cross the main road to gain access to boarding houses about road safety is advised. *Note: You may refer to the relevant standard in the remainder of the report by omitting the 2-letter prefix. E.g. BS10 refers to Standard 10.
Framlingham College Page 13
PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS
The following Inspection Methods have been used in the production of this report.
Direct Observation YES Pupil guided tour of accommodation YES Pupil guided tour of Recreational Areas YES
Checks with other Organisations and Individuals • Social Services YES • Fire Service NO • Environmental Health NO • DfES YES • School Doctor NA • Independent Person or Counsellor NA • Chair of Governors NO ‘Tracking’ individual welfare arrangements YES Group discussion with boarders YES Group interviews with House staff teams YES Group discussion with ancillary staff YES Group discussion with Gap students NA Individual interviews with key staff YES Boarders' survey YES Meals taken with pupils YES Early morning and late evening visits YES Invitation to parents to comment YES Inspection of policy / practice documents YES Inspection of Records YES Visit to Sanatorium YES Visits to lodgings NA Individual interviews with pupil(s) YES
Date of Inspection 30/09/03 Time of Inspection 09.25 Duration of Inspection (hrs.) 31.25 Number of Inspector Days spent on site 5
Pre-inspection information and the Head’s evaluative statement, provided by the school, have also been taken into account in preparing this report.
Framlingham College Page 14 SCHOOL INFORMATION:
AGE RANGE OF BOARDING FRO 13 18 PUPILS M TO
NUMBER OF BOARDERS (FULL TIME + WEEKLY) AT TIME OF INSPECTION:
Boys 191
Girls 107
Total 298
Number of separate Boarding Houses 7
The following pages summarise the key findings and evidence from this inspection, together with the NCSC assessment of the extent to which standards have been met. The following 4-point scale is used to indicate the extent to which standards have been met or not met by placing the assessed level alongside the phrase "Standard met?"
The 4-point scale ranges from: 4 - Standard Exceeded (Commendable) 3 - Standard Met (No Shortfalls) 2 - Standard Almost Met (Minor Shortfalls) 1 - Standard Not Met (Major Shortfalls)
"0" in the "Standard met" box denotes standard not assessed on this occasion. "9" in the "Standard met" box denotes standard not applicable. “X” is used where a percentage value or numerical value is not applicable.
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WELFARE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:
• A suitable statement of the school's boarding principles and practice should be available to parents, boarders and staff. • Boarders are protected from bullying. • Boarders are protected from abuse. • Use of discipline with boarders is fair and appropriate. • Boarders' complaints are appropriately responded to. • Boarders' health is promoted. • Safeguarding and promoting boarders' health and welfare are supported by appropriate records.
Standard 1 (1.1 – 1.4) A suitable statement of the school’s boarding principles and practice should be available to parents, boarders and staff. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The college provides a great deal of information in a folder, including a prospectus, professionally produced, individual handbooks for each boarding house, an annual information booklet, student planner and a CD Rom. The folder also contained bus timetables, maps and a Newsletter.
There is a clear statement of aims and objectives, most comprehensively set down in boarding house handbooks, which emphasises the ’integrated’ nature of what is termed ‘home boarding’, whereby students are members of a boarding house where they can complete homework and take part in evening activities, but still live at home and full, weekly or ‘occasional stay’ boarding opportunities.
Inspectors felt that the fact that boarding principles were not separated out from the ‘day’ provision blurred the boundaries of each and has the potential to compromise the space and privacy of boarders who are required to share their bedrooms and study areas with additional others.
However, Mrs Randall is convinced of the efficacy of the current arrangements, as against providing separate facilities for day pupils, having some years ago changed from this set-up. She feels that it brings the school together, widens the range of social contacts available to boarders and day pupils alike and is in every sense worthwhile.
The college is clear that it operates on Christian principles, but not limited by religion.
The standard is met.
Framlingham College Page 16 Standard 2 (2.1 – 2.6) The school should have an effective policy on countering bullying, which is known to parents, boarders and staff and which is implemented successfully in practice. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 1 The school has made strides in its approach to anti-bullying and at the last inspection had taken the opportunity to canvass all pupils in order to develop an overview about pastoral aspects of the school community. The inspector who carried out the last full welfare inspection, against local standards, formed the view that the college had moved into a stage where there remained a degree of robust mickey-taking with its basis in the rather macho culture. Female pupils said that they needed to be able to give as good as they got as far as their interaction with some of the boys was concerned. They expressed the view that less ebullient or more sensitive pupils might find dealing with this difficult.
It was, then, with some interest that the inspection team at this inspection approached the issue of anti-bullying. Had the college made further advances? Discussions with older pupils, both male and female suggested that it had, but there remained some divergence of opinion in that one young woman returned after the meeting and said that she had not wished to say anything in front of her peers, but the macho attitude persisted. Others reported that relationships between older and younger pupils as a whole were ’becoming more respectful’. Some girls said that at times they feel uncomfortable with comments made by boys, especially when they are around the school.
Older boys acknowledged what they called ‘banter’ and ‘joking’, but said that they did this only with less with ‘sensitive girls’.
However, the results of the pupil survey revealed that a considerable number of pupils felt that they are affected by bullying. Parents raised the matter in responses to letters from the National Care Standards Commission canvassing their views on what the school does well and what could be improved. Of the 268 replies to the pupil survey 151 boarders said they do not get bullied at all. 74 said that they sometimes get bullied and 26 said they often get bullied. Seven boarders said that they are bullied most of the time. As a result of some comments made on pupil questionnaires, the inspecting team carried out a number of individual interviews with boarders. The majority of these interviews, to which boarders were invited to come, with no pressure to do so, were as a result of the young people concerned raising the issue of bullying in some way. The inspectors expected to hear that pupils were the subject of name-calling and, from what had been said, some racial taunting, but they also heard about some physical bullying, rough play etc. When asked about this the Head said that the college were, at the time of the inspection dealing with some bullying issues. It is acknowledged that when schools are in the middle of dealing with matters such as this and an inspection takes place, pupils are likely to raise them with inspectors. The profile is inevitably much higher.
Some younger boys complained to inspectors that older pupils pushed in at meal queues, took over the television, and insisted on going out of turn on the pool table when younger ones had been waiting a long time for a game. They found this frustrating and very unfair.
Some Chinese students felt discriminated against and complained of being made to speak English when those from other countries were not treated in this way. A small number of students complained of racist bullying and taunting.
What got the pupils down was the constant pressure being applied by individuals and groups. Most said that they accepted that in a society as diverse as this some teasing and Framlingham College Page 17 joking took place and they could handle it. It was one of the reasons they came away to school – to learn to live with others and to learn to be independent. But day in and day out the continual pressure, and the fact that they perceived nothing was done about it, had a depressing effect on them.
Other students said that bullying took the form of being left out, being made fun of and not having religious beliefs taken seriously.
Pupils and parents informed the inspectors of an incident that had taken place after a house event when some senior boys appear to have been extremely exuberant in involving younger ones in horse play. The college did view this incident very seriously and action was taken.
This is to be welcomed as the Head and her Deputy are strong in their view that the college is a close and caring community and every child has a right to feel secure and to achieve their full potential. To this end, the Head has ensured that each pupil has written guidance in the Student Planner if they are unhappy or worried. A number of people are identified who ware available to help. Contact information is given for a couple of people outside the school, but living locally as well as Childline and Boarding School line. The Lead Inspector’s telephone number, as an National Care Standards Commission employee, is given but should be updated to reflect current arrangements. There had been a recent address in Chapel about the importance of treating each other respectfully. Teachers reported their attempts to bring the issue of bullying to the fore in discussions during PHSE lessons.
Pupils reported that there are no initiation ceremonies that are intended to cause pain, anxiety or humiliation.
The college is pro-active in its theoretical approach to anti-bullying, but it seems that there is still some work to be done to translate this into establishing a community in which every pupil, younger and older, male and female, feels included and valued by everybody else. Mrs Randall said that the anti-bullying policy is being ‘re-vamped’.
It is because bullying was identified as an issue by a significant number of boarders that the standard is assessed as not met at this time.
PERCENTAGE OF PUPILS REPORTING NEVER OR HARDLY EVER BEING 75 % BULLIED
Framlingham College Page 18 Standard 3 (3.1 – 3.9) The school should have, and follow, an appropriate policy on child protection and response to allegations or suspicions of abuse, which is consistent with local Area Child Protection Committee procedures, and is known to staff and, as appropriate, to older boarders in positions of responsibility. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Mrs Randall has demonstrated her commitment to reporting any incident of child protection to the local Social Care Services Department and to the National Care Standards Commission in line with Area Child Protection Committee guidelines and ‘Working Together’.
She has a senior member of staff with responsibility for child protection matters, including training.
During discussion with all members of staff with pastoral functions, including ancillary staff, inspectors confirmed that appropriate child protection training is given such that the people concerned are clear about what to do in the event that a disclosure of abuse is made. They described how they would respond. This was in accordance with good practice. The responses of one staff group, perhaps because they were the first to be interviewed, hinted at a certain lack of understanding, but not dangerously so.
Inspectors felt that the Sanatorium staff should have some child protection training from an outside source that recognises the particular issues associated with their position as medical personnel, perhaps a paediatrician.
Inspectors emphasised the need to train prefects, who might need to respond to other pupils who are unhappy or uncomfortable. The Deputy Head – Pastoral is particularly keen to take on further training for prefects that has already started.
In a recent incident where a small number of boarders were absent without permission, the school acted appropriately in ascertaining their whereabouts and dealing with the situation once they returned.
The standard is met.
Framlingham College Page 19 Standard 4 (4.1 - 4.7) The school should have, and follow, a fair and appropriate policy on behaviour, discipline and use of punishments, known to boarders, staff and parents. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The college are very clear about what is, and what is not, acceptable behaviour. The Code of Conduct is printed in the front of the Student Planner. This covers physical boundaries, signing out, uniform and rules relating to alcohol, serious bullying, sexual relationships, tobacco and chewing gum. The Code states that breaches of some more serious regulations will lead to the pupils concerned forfeiting their right to be members of the college. In a small number of instances recently pupils have been permanently excluded for breaking the college rules. The young people spoken with by inspectors appeared to understand well the college’s rules and regulations.
There are house punishment records. A new ‘tariff’ of punishments for particular offences has been agreed between House staff with the aim of helping prefects act appropriately when they need to discipline pupils.
Pupils appeared to be very well behaved around the college grounds and in their very relaxed interaction with staff.
Three quarters of the boarders reported punishments to be given out fairly ‘always’, ‘almost always’ or ‘most of the time’. The remaining 25% were less happy about this aspect of the college’s operation, saying that punishments were given out unfairly ‘most of the time’ or ‘almost always’. The ‘notch’ system did come in for some criticism from pupils as did being ‘gated’ for misdemeanours. Sanctions for smokers were also a bone of contention among, presumably, pupils who smoke tobacco.
But, generally, no idiosyncratic or unacceptable sanctions were reported to inspectors. Prefect power is clearly defined and monitored.
The standard is met.
Framlingham College Page 20 Standard 5 (5.1 - 5.7) The school should have, and follow, an appropriate policy on responding to complaints from boarders and parents. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The inspectors’ view was that this is a regime in which it is OK to complain. Discussions with boarders revealed that they do make their concerns known to staff. The pupil survey confirmed that there is a range of people to whom boarders can go if they are unhappy about something.
A complaints procedure for pupils is being prepared.
The college may wish to consider introducing a ‘low level’ procedure for airing, and responding to, ‘gripes’. This could be by means of a tried and tested process currently in use elsewhere, i.e. an ‘I want you to know’ form. Pupils who wish to draw the attention of their staff to something without personally engaging them or drawing down the full might of the college complaints procedure can write their concerns on the form and hand it in. The house master or mistress can respond with something like an ‘I’m glad you told me that’ form that gives a brief response and, possibly, a plan for remedial action.
The standard is met. Number of complaints, if any, received by NCSC about the school during last X 12 months:
Framlingham College Page 21 Standard 6 (6.1 – 6.3) The school should have, and follow, an appropriate policy on countering major risks to health, including substance abuse. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 There is a PHSE programme for years 9 to 11.
Smoking continues to be an issue at Framlingham College, as it was 3 years ago when the last full welfare inspection took place. Much effort is expended by staff on uncovering and punishment of smoking and by pupils in the avoidance of detection. Certain areas are recognised by pupils as ‘safe’ places where they can smoke, although this is certainly not seen as acceptable by the college authorities. Littering is a resultant problem.
Smoking among the young is a problem for schools and one that, apparently, is increasing in society at large. The college seems to be at a loss about the most effective way to get its message across and to ensure a cooperative response from pupils.
There is a realistic approach to older pupils having access to small amounts of alcohol under controlled conditions, and to using local pubs with parental permission and in accordance with licensing laws. It is permissible to purchase tobacco at 16 years of age. Both alcohol and tobacco have attendant health risks. Currently, the college policy towards the prohibition of smoking appears not to be working and some middle course might be considered that results in pupils not having to be deceitful and underhand in their efforts to indulge and in a more effective use of staff time in tracking ‘offenders’.
Mrs Randall reported her concern about the availability locally of some illegal substances although she will not be alone in this, as every Head of a school located in a town will appreciate. She has a robust approach to any pupil proved to have taken drugs. This could well lead to permanent exclusion, even for a first offence. This is at the Head’s discretion.
One matter that did concern the inspecting team was the issue of screening some pupils for drug use by means of a ‘wipe’ method. Mrs Randall confirmed that this only took place with the permission of the pupils themselves, but if they refuse they risk exclusion. She has a policy of ensuring that this testing is not associated with the Sanatorium operation. Inspectors were not convinced that a programme of drug testing in this way was either ethical or likely to be effective when carried out by untrained staff in uncontrolled conditions.
With the above in mind, the standard is not met at this time.
Framlingham College Page 22 Standard 7 (7.1 – 7.5) Adequate records should be kept in relation to individual boarders’ health and welfare needs and issues. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Discussion with Sanatorium staff, and examination of some records, confirmed that there are satisfactory procedures in place for recording health and welfare matters relating to pupils. Adequate records are also kept in boarding houses. Information about pupils is passed informally among staff and discussed at the Wednesday meetings of all staff. The BSPI was concerned that one housemaster is in the habit of destroying some papers in pupil files.
Some notes are made on the confidential notice board in the Common Room. Care should be taken with this method of sharing information and those involved must be sure that only those who need to know are informed about sensitive matters, that could sometimes be personal or of quite an intimate nature. Will all staff have access to this information, for instance, including ancillary staff and people who have no reason to be given any details?
The college may wish to look at how information on registration forms and admission proformas is transferred to those who might need it, or who might later be required to maintain a watching brief over a particular student.
The advice given above does not detract from the assessment of the standard as met.
Framlingham College Page 23
ORGANISATION AND MANAGEMENT
The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:
• There is clear leadership of boarding in the school. • Crises affecting boarders' welfare are effectively managed. • The school's organisation of boarding contributes to boarders' welfare. • Boarders have access to a range and choice of activities. • Boarders are enabled to contribute to the operation of boarding in the school. • The operation of any prefect system safeguards and promotes boarders' welfare. • Boarders receive personal support from staff.
Standard 8 (8.1 - 8.3) There should be clear management and leadership of the practice and development of boarding in the school. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Mrs Randall confirmed that she regularly reports to the governing body on all matters, including boarding. The structure of the college has the Deputy Head – Pastoral line managing the Housemasters and mistresses and, by extension, boarding staff. He meets with the senior house staff every Monday morning and for an extended meeting half termly.
Senior house staff are drawn from personnel who are experienced in matters of boarding.
There is, in the opinion of the inspecting team, clear accountability in boarding.
The standard is met.
Standard 9 (9.1 – 9.3) The school should be capable of satisfactorily managing crises affecting boarders’ welfare Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Head has identified a senior member of staff to take responsibility for health and safety issues and for managing incidents or crises.
There are policies and procedures in place that meet the standard required.
Framlingham College Page 24 Standard 10 (10.1 – 10.5) The organisation of boarding houses or units should operate satisfactorily and provide appropriate protection and separation of boarders by age and gender. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 There are four boarding houses for boys and three for girls. Each boarding house is vertically structured with a mixture of younger and older pupils. Day pupils are attached to boarding houses and share some of the facilities.
The fact that two boarding houses are situated within the original building, and others are of varying age mean that physical provision does vary quite markedly. However, the college authorities embarked on a programme of refurbishment and upgrading that is in process of bringing all boarding houses up, and in excess, of current standards. Only one boarding house, Garrett, remains to be refurbished.
Boarding houses do also have differences in the manner in which they operate, dependent to a degree on the personality of the pastoral staff involved, particularly the senior person, their background and experience.
There is some internal separation of pupils as regards their age. In some boarding houses the younger boarders tend to sleep in multi-occupancy areas, while older pupils share studies or have small single rooms.
The standard is met.
Standard 11 (11.1 - 11.6) There should be an appropriate range and choice of activities for boarders outside teaching time. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Pupils reported a positive response to the range of activities on offer at the college.
Mrs Randall said that there is a variable take-up at times and not everybody responds well to what staff provide, or what is arranged off campus. She confirmed that the college spends a great deal of money on activities at weekends.
Pupils are expected to take part in a fixed number of activities during the week and at weekends, depending on age and commitment elsewhere, in particular when the pressure of exams comes on at 16 years and 18 years.
Some Yr. 9 and Yr. 10 pupils complained to the inspectors at having, compulsorily, to take part in an activity on Sunday. They saw this as their precious free time and some resented having it taken up.
The college has splendid facilities both indoor and outdoor, sporting, artistic and cultural.
There is sufficient internet security to prevent access to inappropriate sites. Some pupils asked for internet and e-mail facilities in the boarding houses. This has yet to be arranged.
The standard is met.
Framlingham College Page 25 Standard 12 (12.1 - 12.2) Boarders have opportunity to contribute views to the operation of boarding provision. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The inspecting team were told that there is a College Council and a Food Committee. There were various accounts as to the effectiveness of these forums where pupils can have a say in the running of the school or whether they lead to change. However, pupils did give examples of where things have changed. The BSPI observed the operation of the Food Committee and felt reassured that it was working reasonably well.
Representatives are drawn from pupils in every boarding house and meet on a two-weekly basis.
House meetings are not really given over to discussions about the operation of the boarding house, but rather for information giving by staff. Some boarders did say that they would welcome more formal opportunities to give their views on the way things are run, but conceded that they can speak informally to staff about their ideas. House staff should not be reluctant to form House Councils (the parish councils, perhaps, of the school system) to provide additional opportunities for boarders to have their say.
Mrs Randall and the Deputy Head-Pastoral are confident that prefects act as a link between the staff and the student body.
The standard is met.
Framlingham College Page 26 Standard 13 (13.1 - 13.7) Any prefect system (or equivalent) should give prefects (or equivalent) appropriate specific duties and responsibilities, with adequate staff supervision and measures to counter possible abuses of the role. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The inspectors met with a group of school prefects and discussed with them their duties and responsibilities. They appeared to be an impressive group, mature and balanced. They said that they are appointed to their role having been chosen by their peers and confirmed in post after staff input. They were clear that the traits that are important are not simply being good at sport, having a high IQ or being popular. They recognised the need for quite highly developed ‘people skills’ and to be an effective communicator.
They reported some training for the role and that they have a job description. At the beginning of the year there was an induction day for prefects. This was considered to have been a success by pupils and by staff.
Prefects confirmed that any sanctions they give are monitored by staff. They meet as a group every Monday morning. Some attempt has been made to establish some consistency with sanctions across all boarding houses.
The young people said that they valued the good student/staff relationships at Framlingham College.
Pupils in the Lower Sixth are able to ‘practice’ in the role when those in post are taking their final exams.
The standard is met.
Framlingham College Page 27 Standard 14 (14.1 - 14.6) Each boarder should have one or more members of staff to whom he or she can turn for personal guidance or with a personal problem. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 4 The pupil survey confirmed that boarders have a range of people to whom they can turn if they are unhappy. Not surprisingly, they identified parents and friends as most commonly used in this role. House masters and mistresses and tutors are also used extensively. Senior pupils figure large and ‘younger staff’ although how these latter are defined was not pursued.
It was pleasing to see that a significant number of pupils identified the Head as somebody they would approach if they were unhappy.
The college system that places resident and non-resident tutors in boarding houses appears to be working very well indeed.
The college has identified somebody in the role of independent listener, but boarders said that they would be unlikely to contact such a person as they are not sufficiently familiar. Outside of the national organisations such as Childline, young people are not keen to telephone somebody who they do not know.
Contact information for people described by the college as available to help is given in the Student Planner.
The standard is met.
Framlingham College Page 28
WELFARE SUPPORT TO BOARDERS
The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:
• Boarders receive first aid and health care as necessary. • Boarders are adequately supervised and looked after when ill. • Boarders are supported in relation to any health or personal problems. • Boarders do not experience inappropriate discrimination. • Boarders can maintain private contact with their parents and families. • Boarders’ possessions and money are protected. • New boarders are introduced to the school’s procedures and operation, and are enabled to settle in. • Boarders’ welfare is protected in any appointment of educational guardians by the school. • Risk assessment and school record keeping contribute to boarders’ welfare. • Boarders receive good quality catering provision. • Boarders have access to food and drinking water in addition to main meals. • Boarders are protected from the risk of fire. • Boarders’ welfare is not compromised by unusual or onerous demands. • The welfare of any children other than the school’s pupils is safeguarded and promoted while accommodated by the school. • Boarders’ safety and welfare are protected during high-risk activities. • Boarders have appropriate access to information and facilities outside the school.
Framlingham College Page 29 Standard 15 (15.1 – 15.14) Appropriate first aid and minor illness treatment are available to boarders at all times, with access to medical, dental and optical services as required. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The college has a fully functional Sanatorium with two trained nurses in post. Boarders have access to a GP practice within easy walking distance. Pupils can make their own appointments and meet the doctor unaccompanied if they wish. Inspectors checked the bona fides of the nursing staff. One trained nurse lives over the San.
A doctor has a surgery at the college 3 days a week. A female GP is available on Wednesdays.
House staff confirmed that there is always a first-aider available.
Pupils in Yrs. 9, 10 and 11 are required to attend for dispensing of medication while those in Yrs. 12 and 13 can keep their own medicines and tablets. This must be stored in a lockable drawer ion their bedroom. In this case, the House Master or Mistress would be informed.
There is a list of pupils with allergies and an ‘epi’ pen is kept on hand for life threatening medical situations.
Older female pupils are able to consult the GP about contraceptive advice and the morning after pill is available.
The nurses said that one boarder is prescribed controlled medication, but the Sanatorium does not have a Controlled Drugs Book in which to make recordings required by legislation. This will be a firm recommendation.
The Sanatorium sister confirmed that whoever is first to the scene of any accident is responsible for filling in the incident report. These are then forwarded to the member of staff with health and safety responsibilities.
A medication cupboard was about to be fitted at the time of the inspection.
Both nursing staff are relatively new in post and are in the process of developing detailed individual medical records for pupils.
The standard is met.
Framlingham College Page 30 Standard 16 (16.1 - 16.3) Boarders who are ill should be regularly checked and adequately looked after by a member of staff, and be able to summon staff assistance readily and rapidly when necessary. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 If necessary, pupils can stay in the Sanatorium. This is likely only to happen when the young person is too ill to return to the boarding house and/or is not able to go home. With nursing staff resident on the Sanatorium premises supervision throughout the day and night is quite possible. There are facilities for pupils who just need some quiet time, say for an hour or two because of a headache, to stay in the Sanatorium and then go back to school.
If the pupil can be looked after in the boarding house, this becomes the responsibility of the house Matron.
The standard is met.
Framlingham College Page 31 Standard 17 (17.1 – 17.8) Significant health and personal problems of individual boarders should be identified and managed appropriately. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 While there was evidence that the welfare of young people about whom staff might have concerns was being addressed, it was difficult for inspectors to establish any kind of procedural ‘trail’ from the initial signs that led a particular member of staff to raise the question to an action plan for dealing effectively with the problem. Some concerns that were noted in admission details were not followed up.
The inspecting team ‘tracked’ a number of boarders who, during the course of the inspection, had been identified, or who may have identified themselves, as having welfare issues. What they may have expected to find was that the young people concerned might have some sort of ‘Care Plan’. This would likely hinge on a named individual who co- ordinates the gathering of information, holds a meeting with the significant staff, establishes an action plan for addressing the problem, monitors progress within a short timeframe and finally reviews the situation. If successful, the ‘case’ can be closed, perhaps with some gentle oversight and longer term reporting back.
The inspecting team were told by staff that they do respond in this way and they were confident that welfare matters are addressed, but there was no evidence to support the claim. Little, if anything, was written down in the personal files of students who are vulnerable or isolated or about whom staff are worried.
In one boarding house the admission details of a boarder said that he is potentially anorexic and suffers from ME. Whether this was the case was never followed up. There was certainly nothing on his file to suggest that any checks had been made and no planned approach to safeguarding his welfare. In fact, the Housemaster reported to inspectors that staff had observed no signs of either condition, he seemed happy and they were confident that his friends would speak up if they felt there was a problem. While this is comforting, there should have been written evidence that these matters had been treated seriously by staff. Written records of the action taken would have demonstrated their undoubted professionalism.
In another boarding house inspectors saw in a personal file of a pupil that he was being harassed. The incidents had been recorded, but not dated. There was detail of him being kicked and water being poured over him. He had been called names. Staff had advised him about getting on with others. He had been told to report any incident of bullying. Clearly staff had picked up concerns about the boarder, but there was no coherent care plan and nobody had been identified to coordinate an approach that could be helpful. This is just the sort of situation where a care plan might be expected.
In most independent boarding schools the lynch pin for welfare problems, and actions, is, quite properly, the senior housemaster or mistress. Rarely is there a ‘social work approach’ to care planning. While inspectors would not expect to see the kind of recording that a social worker might do, National Minimum Standards do call for an appropriate member of staff to prepare and work to a written and agreed individual ‘welfare plan’ for any boarder with special welfare needs, significant emotional or behavioural difficulties. This is not currently happening at Framlingham College.
Housemasters and mistresses reported a very good working relationship and exchange of information between themselves and Sanatorium nurses. Framlingham College Page 32
Boarders who are homesick are supported and they can find a sympathetic ear among friends, older pupils, house staff and others. In discussion groups, this issue was said to be dealt with appropriately.
Mrs Randall said that staff are receiving training in ‘special needs’ such as autism and related conditions.
Specialist services are available outside the college.
In common with many independent boarding schools catering for students from overseas, the school authorities had to contend in the last academic year with effects of the SARS outbreak in the Far East and the quarantine/isolation measures that followed. They appear to have managed this exceptional situation well and had no outbreak themselves.
The full standard is not met in this case.
Framlingham College Page 33 Standard 18 (18.1 – 18.6) Within the school, there is no inappropriate discrimination on grounds of gender, disability, race, religion, cultural background, linguistic background, sexual orientation, or academic or sporting ability. These factors are taken into account in the care of boarders, so that care is sensitive to different needs. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The college is committed to equal opportunities and discourages inappropriate behaviour among its pupils. The younger girls told inspectors that they feel they are treated the same as the boys, although they did express some disgruntlement at not having some facilities, such as a pool table and computer games, when the boys’ boarding houses have them.
In general, inspectors did not find evidence that male and female boarders are treated differently. However, some older girls did report to feeling uncomfortable at times. This usually was in the communal spaces such as the covered courtyard, the Piazza and the Sixth Form Centre where their male peers occasionally subject them to ‘laddish’ comments.
Some overseas students reported feeling isolated, but said that this tended to disappear once their language skills improved. There is an EFL Department responsible for advancing the language skills and meeting the needs of foreign students. During individual interviews with some overseas students they reported some racial taunting. One Jewish student said that he did not wish to attend Chapel services that are in general Anglican in content. Mrs Randall reiterated the essentially Christian basis for the college’s religious and moral stance and she was hesitant about allowing anybody to miss Chapel unless they hold ‘passionate’ views. The particular needs of Muslim students are catered for.
The Head also said that the policy is to try to limit the use of the national language of overseas students during the school day as in this way improvements will be made in learning English. She has had discussions on this topic with certain groups, principally a number of German students.
It must be said that the college has been selected by parents with a sufficient degree of information about the way it operates and they presumably have weighed in the balance the advantages of attendance at Framlingham against any perceived disadvantages that might occur from being in a different country, with a different language and a different religion.
The standard is met.
Framlingham College Page 34 Standard 19 (19.1 – 19.6) Boarders are enabled to contact their parents and families in private. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Nearly two hundred boarders reported that they have access to a telephone on which to make calls, but almost half said that the telephone was placed in such a position that others could overhear what was being said and therefore privacy could not be guaranteed. While telephones are located in separate booths, these, children said during house tours, are not soundproof. Only 6 boarders said that there was a difficulty in them using a telephone at school. Boarders said that they mostly have phone cards that allow them to ring parents.
Sixty-one boarders said that they have mobiles and can use them when they want. The inspectors were impressed with the college’s attitude towards the freedom given to pupils having mobile phones. They are not collected in and then handed out for use at certain times. Pupils know, and apparently observe well, the rules about not having mobiles turned on during lessons. No problems relating to the use of mobiles were reported to inspectors.
Pupils have access to e-mail facilities, with their own e-mail address, and by arrangement can use the college fax machine.
In some, but not all, telephone booths national helpline numbers were displayed. They tended to be on loose-leaf sheets and inspectors suggest that they are laminated and securely attached to the wall of the booth.
The standard is met.
Framlingham College Page 35 Standard 20 (20.1 – 20.3) Reasonable protection is provided for boarders’ personal possessions and for any boarders’ money or valuables looked after by the school. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 The pupil survey threw up issues about the safety of personal property. During discussion groups this matter was also raised quite a number of times. Parents, too, mentioned it in responses to National Care Standards Commission. Some quite valuable items were reported by boarders as stolen. Boarding houses wholly within the community, i.e. across the road, seemed to be particularly vulnerable. Boarders even reported the theft of trainers. While boarders and staff acknowledged that some losses are due to carelessness, borrowing and being too trusting, the high level of reported thefts and stealing could not all be accounted for in these ways.
During the tour of boarding houses inspectors saw that access was not secure despite the fitting of digital locks to some outside doors.
Each boarding house has its own banking system with the facility for pocket money to be held, and distributed, by house staff when needed. Many boarders also have bank accounts in town and with access to the community so easy for pupils, this seems to be working well.
Many thefts would be prevented if the bedroom doors were locked when unoccupied. If the Head decides, with her senior staff, to go down this route the Fire Safety Officer should be asked to advise on process. On balance it is a good idea and one that underpins the principle of personal and individual space.
Each boarder has a lockable drawer or somewhere to lock away ‘treasures’.
Because of the high level of reported theft the standard was not met at the time of the inspection.
Framlingham College Page 36 Standard 21 (21.1 – 21.3) There is an appropriate process of induction and guidance for new boarders. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 4 This aspect of operation was quite well done. The youngest, and by definition the pupils newest to boarding at the college, were close enough to their admission to remember well, and to be able to recount for inspectors, how they were welcomed into the community. A number of Yr. 9 boarders said that they had the opportunity to visit the college prior to joining. They said that the ‘show house’ was Moreau.
Others said that they had received written instructions. This included information about dress code, activities, sports, expectations, punishments, academic issues and the code of conduct. They are given a tour of the school on their first day.
Each house has a Handbook. The college has a web site, but inspectors were told that the pictures are not very good.
Older pupils and teachers were said by the pupils to be helpful.
The youngest boarders said that they would like to have a new boarders dinner when they join the college.
The standard is well met.
Standard 22 (22.1 – 22.4) Any guardians appointed by the school should be subject to the same recruitment checks as staff, and their care of pupils should be monitored. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 9 Mrs Randall confirmed that the college does not arrange guardians for any pupil.
This standard is not applicable.
Standard 23 (23.1 – 23.4) The Head, or a senior member of the school’s staff, regularly monitors the school’s records of risk assessments, punishments, complaints and accidents, to identify any issues requiring action. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Head has appointed a senior member of her staff to take on the responsibility for health and safety matters and to arrange risk assessments of the premises. He has already arranged an Inset day for every member of staff.
Accidents are monitored and reasonable action is taken to reduce risks.
Punishments are regularly looked at by senior staff.
The standard is met.
Framlingham College Page 37 Standard 24 (24.1 - 24.8) Meals should be provided to boarders, which are adequate in quantity, quality and choice, and provision is made for special dietary, medical or religious needs. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 Inspectors ate a number of meals with pupils and on the whole found them to be nutritious and appetising. Some items seemed to lack taste, however. Pupils were less positive about the college food. Only 6 felt that the food was ‘very good’. Thirty-nine said it was ‘very poor’. Ninety-seven boarders assessed the food only as ‘average’. Inspectors heard complaints that portions were too small, especially for the older, bigger boys. It must be said that inspectors did not find these comments to be wholly substantiated. Inspectors did hear grumbles from boarders about chips being on the menu too often at teatime.
The college catering service is managed in-house. Both the Head and the Finance Manager agreed that there have been some misunderstandings among catering staff as to what pupils are allowed to have at each meal. While some staff allow pupils to take whatever the want, others restrict the range of items, seeming to impose quite strict formulas according to what is on offer. The cook confirmed that some staff have been imposing restrictions and that this would cease with immediate effect.
There is a choice at all main meals, including a vegetarian option. Drinks are available.
The BSPI attended a Food Committee meeting where the cook said that he would like to offer a full cooked breakfast as an option more frequently.
The college do appear to be addressing the stated dissatisfaction of boarders, but until some changes have been confirmed the standard is not met.
Standard 25 (25.1 – 25.5) Boarders have access to drinking water in both boarding and teaching areas, and to food or the means of preparing food at reasonable times in addition to main meals. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Boarders did report to inspectors that they have access to toasters, microwave, fridges and kettles in boarding houses and can order fruit juice to be delivered. They did say that the distribution arrangements sometimes do not work as effectively as they should.
Boarders have access to drinking water in houses.
Inspectors saw some storage for food items although this was not always in fridges. Some food was being kept in drawers in kitchen units and boarders’ rooms.
The report will give welfare advice relating to the provision of more suitable storage facilities for food items.
The standard is met.
Framlingham College Page 38 Standard 26 (26.1 – 26.5) Boarders and boarding staff should be aware of emergency evacuation procedures from boarding accommodation. The school should comply with recommendations of the Fire Service, and should regularly carry out and record risk assessments in relation to fire, together with fire drills and any routine tests recommended by the Fire Service. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Boarders reported that they are subject to regular fire drills and know how to evacuate the building safely and quickly.
Even those students whose first language is not English said that they had been told very early on in their stay what to do in case of fire.
Fire drills are not only held at ‘convenient’ times i.e. when everybody is awake and in a position to respond quickly. They are also held quite late at night and early in the morning before the boarding houses are fully awake.
The most recent fire safety report for the school appears to be dated 14/04/99. There have been some structural changes since that time and the Fire Safety Officer should be invited back to make another inspection.
The standard is met.
Framlingham College Page 39 Standard 27 (27.1 – 27.3) Schools where there are unusual or especially onerous demands on boarders ensure that these are appropriate to the boarders concerned and do not unacceptably affect boarders’ welfare. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The students who attend Framlingham College are kept very busy with academic demands and a range of extra-curricular activities. While 20 students reported on the pupil survey that ‘there is not enough freedom’ and 13 said that they do not have enough ‘free time’, inspectors did not get the impression that demands are especially onerous.
Clearly, when exams loom for older pupils this trends to impose its own schedule of revision and additional study, but the inspecting team were able to identify periods of time when students could do their own thing, meet with friends or simply chill out.
Following comments on a pupil questionnaire, inspectors investigated a complaint from a senior pupil about the demands being made on him by a member of staff. The pupil concerned appeared to be extremely able, had clearly managed the situation with great tact and considerable diplomacy and, it must be said, with a view to organising his life to take him in a particular direction that was enviable. The teacher’s perceived unreasonableness seemed to stem from his own passion about his subject and his understandable keenness to ensure that the pupil made the most of what is a prodigious talent, but the inspectors felt so concerned, and were so impressed with the student's balanced approach, that they brought the matter to the Head’s attention at the feedback meeting. She said she would follow it up and take appropriate action.
Inspectors felt that the school’s approach to access to the town was both imaginative and realistic.
The standard is met.
Standard 28 (28.1 – 28.2) The welfare of any children accommodated at the school, other than pupils, is protected. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 9 The school staff do not look after any children other than its own boarders, e.g. for residential holidays that utilise the college facilities.
The standard is not applicable.
Framlingham College Page 40 Standard 29 (29.1 – 29.6) Identifiably high-risk activities provided for boarders should be competently supervised and accompanied by adequate and appropriate safety measures. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 4 The Head has appointed a senior member of staff to oversee risk assessments in the college. These are satisfactorily managed.
The qualifications and experience of staff supervising high risk activities are checked and the appropriate safety measures taken.
Parents’ permission is sought in advance of the activity being undertaken.
The relevant legislation is followed. The BSPI saw paperwork that related to this aspect of management.
The standard is well met.
Standard 30 (30.1 – 30.5) Boarders have access to information about events in the world outside the school, and access to local facilities, which is appropriate to their age. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Boarders have access to television, newspapers and magazines.
They can visit the town at certain times during each day and at weekends. There are organised trips and outings.
There is an effective signing out procedure and staff do know who is sleeping in the house each night. This is vital with a flexible system that allows day pupils to spend the odd night in residence.
The standard is met.
Framlingham College Page 41
STAFFING
The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:
• Boarders are adequately supervised by staff. • Staff exercise appropriate supervision of boarders leaving the school site. • Boarders are adequately supervised at night. • Boarders are looked after by staff with specific boarding duties, with adequate induction and continued training. • Boarders are looked after by staff following clear boarding policies and practice. • There are sound relationships between staff and boarders. • Boarders’ personal privacy is respected. • There is vigorous selection and vetting of all staff and volunteers working with boarders. • Boarders are protected from unsupervised contact at school with adults who have not been subject to the school’s complete recruitment checking procedures and there is supervision of all unchecked visitors to the boarding premises.
Framlingham College Page 42 Standard 31 (31.1 – 31.7) The staff supervising boarders outside teaching time should be sufficient in number and deployment for the age, number and needs of boarders, and the locations and activities involved. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 Each boarding house has designated staff including those with academic, pastoral and ancillary responsibilities. Each work as a team and meet regularly together. Individual members make their own arrangements by agreement and with the knowledge of the senior person.
In general the staffing levels are satisfactory, but, as in a previous inspection, inspectors identified certain times when supervision is ‘thin’. While standard 31.3 might, in theory, be met in that boarders are at all times under the responsibility of an identified member of staff, and students are likely to know who that person is, inspectors were concerned that the process of one staff member at times being responsible for two boarding houses did not meet standard 31.6 of the National Minimum Standards. Because the college has this particular system in place, inevitably, there will be times when students are in boarding houses on their own with no adult with direct responsibility within calling distance.
In particular, this situation exists at times during the weekends. Before 7.00 or 7.30am during weekdays and on Saturdays pupils may be under the supervision of a senior pupil only. Similarly, depending on timetabling, there might not be a member of staff available in each boarding house at 4.00pm. This, because staff may be involved in after school activities.
Inspectors were confident that, if required all members of staff would be willing to assist in an emergency or if called upon, even if off duty, to do so. The Head’s view is that the ‘light touch’ supervision approach is one of the college’s strengths, but agreed to firm up the contact/information arrangements for duty staff.
Both male and female staff are available to students.
The standard is only partly met in view of the staffing arrangements at times.
Standard 32 (32.1 - 32.5) Boarders temporarily away from the school site remain under the overall responsibility of a duty member of staff, and are able to contact a member of staff in an emergency. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 4 The senior member of staff responsible for health and safety manages all outings and keeps a calendar of such events. Staff are required to seek permission to go out with pupils and to provide the correct paperwork before doing so. There is a handbook relating to emergency procedures. Each trip out has a mobile phone. A senior member of staff is on call when pupils are off the premises in these circumstances.
Mrs Randall looks at risk assessments.
The standard is well met.
Framlingham College Page 43 Standard 33 (33.1 - 33.5) Staff should be present, and accessible to boarders as necessary, in each boarding house at night. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Each boarding house has resident staff who are responsible for the house at night. The pupils reported that they know how to contact staff in an emergency, or if somebody is ill during the night.
There are suitable arrangements for keeping track of who is present at night.
The standard is met.
Standard 34 (34.1 – 34.7) All staff with boarding duties have job descriptions reflecting those duties, receive induction training in boarding when newly appointed, and receive regular review of their boarding practice, with opportunities for continuing training in boarding. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 While inspectors know that House Masters, House Mistresses and House Tutors have job descriptions, available in the Staff Handbook, they were not shown job descriptions for other staff undertaking pastoral duties.
They were told that senior house staff have appraisals, but were unclear as to whether junior staff in boarding houses are also appraised on a regular basis.
New members of staff who join a boarding team have induction and inspectors were informed that in some cases appointment to a senior position follows only after duty as an assistant. One Housemaster had recently worked for a year under the guidance of a retiring Housemaster.
In one case, different boarding houses are run by a married couple.
There are opportunities for staff to attend Boarding Schools Association training courses, but the evidence that pastoral training takes place systematically was ‘patchy’. Mrs Randall said during feedback that she endeavours to send as many staff as possible on training courses and there is usually somebody involved.
On balance, the standard was met, but those responsible for management may wish to look at training for staff undertaking pastoral duties.
Framlingham College Page 44 Standard 35 (35.1 – 35.4) All staff with boarding duties are provided with up to date written guidance on the school’s boarding policies and practice. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 There is an up to date staff handbook.
In addition, each boarding house has a handbook that relates to the individual aspects of life in that particular house.
There is guidance on child protection and anti-bullying, although, as previously mentioned, bullying was reported by pupils to be an issue across the school.
The Head has kept the National Care Standards Commission up to speed with the progress of a recent disciplinary matter. Appropriate action appears to have been taken at each turn with Mrs Randal acting in a timely fashion to protect the welfare of pupils.
The standard is met.
Standard 36 (36.1 – 36.4) There are sound staff/boarder relationships. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 While inspectors saw individually a relatively large number of pupils (usually in company with a friend or somebody they trusted) as a result of what they might have said in response to the pupil survey, there were few comments about poor relationships with teachers and other staff.
Boarders’ views reflected that they are well looked after.
It was interesting to note that 51 pupils mentioned the dedication and friendliness of staff.
Thirteen said that staff interfere and 11 said they are ‘too strict and unreasonable’. During discussion groups some younger girls commented that, while they acknowledge the advantages of staff having families living with them adjacent to the boarding houses, certain staff are pre-occupied with their own families, which detracts from the attention they are able to give to the boarders. Others, they said, lack warmth. Some staff from overseas were perceived not to demonstrate ‘maternal’ qualities while another, with boys of her own, treats girls ‘too much like boys’.
Two female pupils mentioned being uncomfortable in the presence of a male member of staff and this was brought to the attention of the Head.
Generally, inspectors formed the view that relationships between pupils and staff are sound. Several interactions were observed when there was evidence of mutual respect, trust and warmth.
On balance, the standard was met.
Framlingham College Page 45 Standard 37 (37.1 - 37.2) Staff supervision of boarders should avoid intruding unnecessarily on boarders' privacy. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 No major issues relating to the invasion of privacy were brought to the notice of inspectors. Students reported good privacy arrangements around toilets and bathrooms.
The only less than positive mention relating to privacy was that one Housemaster does not always knock and wait before entering bedrooms and this was mentioned to the Head during feedback.
In one boarding house it is the practice to waken pupils up using a hand bell. A significant number of pupils said that they did not like this approach and would appreciate a gentler reveille. Inspectors discussed this with the Housemaster concerned and he was very surprised. His perception was that pupils liked this idiosyncratic approach. Maybe the matter could be discussed at a house meeting and a consensus arrived at.
The standard is met.
Framlingham College Page 46 Standard 38 (38.1 - 38.10) Recruitment of all staff (including ancillary staff and those on a contractual/sessional basis) and volunteers who work with boarders (as defined in the Criminal Justice and Court Services Act 2000) includes checks through the Criminal Records Bureau checking system (enhanced as appropriate), with a satisfactory outcome. There is a satisfactory recruitment process recorded in writing. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 Recruitment procedures are set down in law and all schools are required to take specified precautions to check the bona fides of new staff being appointed to posts involving access to children. Inspectors checked that all the required procedures were being followed in the case of staff appointed since 1st April 2002. The Head conceded that all the required checks were not being made. Inspectors provided a matrix of checks that in future must be followed.
The Criminal Records Bureau has undertaken to turn around 9 out of 10 applications for disclosure in less than 4 weeks and with this in mind no member of staff can take up his or her post until the school has received an appropriate disclosure.
Because of the ease with which apparently genuine documents can these days be produced using desktop software, inspectors suggested that the college saw original copies of all relevant qualifications of successful applicants, and copies then kept on file.
Notes should be kept of interviews with successful applicants and any gaps in employment history discussed and a record made of the reasons given.
Although for staff who may have had a number of career moves it might prove to be very difficult and time-consuming for the college authorities, attempts should be made to contact personally all previous employers where the applicant may have had access to children and/or vulnerable adults and the results noted.
The college was not making all the checks mentioned above and with this in mind the standard is not wholly met.
Standard 39 (39.1 - 39.4) The school does not allow any member of staff (including ancillary staff, sessional/contract staff and volunteers) to work unsupervised with boarders unless that member of staff has been satisfactorily checked with the Criminal Records Bureau. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 0 This standard was not checked specifically with regard to ancillary staff and adults with access to boarding houses, but the attention of the Head is drawn to the requirements of 39.4.
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PREMISES
The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:
• Boarders are provided with satisfactory accommodation. • Boarders have their own accommodation, secure from public intrusion. • Boarders have satisfactory sleeping accommodation. • Boarders have satisfactory provision to study. • Boarders have adequate private toilet and washing facilities. • Boarders have satisfactory provision for changing by day. • Boarders have access to a range of safe recreational areas. • Boarders are protected from safety hazards. • Boarders are suitably accommodated when ill. • Boarders' clothing and bedding are adequately laundered. • Boarders can obtain personal requisites while accommodated at school. • The welfare of boarders placed in lodgings is safeguarded and promoted. • The welfare of boarders is safeguarded and promoted while accommodated away from the school site on short-term visits.
Standard 40 (40.1 - 40.8) Boarding Houses (including dormitories and living areas) and other accommodation provided for boarders should be appropriately lit, heated and ventilated, suitably furnished, accessible to any boarders with disabilities, and adequately maintained. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Some extensive refurbishment has already been carried out and the college is in the final stages of a complete overhaul and replacement of facilities within boarding houses. Pupils remarked on this and recognised the efforts made by the college to provide upgraded premises for them. This did not stop some pupils commenting negatively on the state of the showers in one house and on the poor state of repair. Mrs Randall confirmed during feedback that these matters are in hand. The pupils in Garrett were eagerly awaiting completion of building work there.
The boarding houses are well, if blandly, decorated and adequately furnished. The cleanliness and level of maintenance of boarding houses appears not to be an issue. Inspectors saw domestic staff going about their duties diligently.
Pupils reported that the houses are warm enough and well ventilated.
There is a significant amount of strip lighting, which, though bright, is somewhat institutional, certainly not homely or domestic in character and can be wearing on the eyes if exposure is extended. Most, although not all, boarders have a bedside light for nighttime reading. Mrs Randall agreed during feedback to check on the availability of overbed lights for all pupils.
Recognising the continued efforts being made by the college to upgrade facilities in boarding houses, and notwithstanding the minor matters mentioned above, the standard is met.
Framlingham College Page 48 Standard 41 (41.1 - 41.8) Boarding accommodation is reserved for the use of those boarders designated to use it, and protected by access by the public. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 All boarding houses have day pupils attached to them. They are allocated space in a dorm or study in which to keep their things and to work if necessary. This arrangement has been positively and negatively commented on by pupils and by their parents. While it is said to ‘widen the social circle’ for pupils the consequent reduction in working and in storage space is a perceived disadvantage. Pupils remarked to inspectors that they do not feel that the bedroom or dorm is their own space and that this is important for young people away from home with little personal or private space. Mrs Randall and her senior member of staff with responsibility for boarding agreed at the feedback meeting to look at the current situation, and, if necessary, to ‘fine tune’ the day study arrangements.
Visitors are allowed to come into the boarding houses, but boys and girls may only visit communal areas and not bedrooms. In order to maintain the privacy of the house all visitors have to be gone by a certain time in the evening.
The college site cannot be protected in all regards as there are a number of public footpaths crossing the campus. There have been some problems with local youths. In addition, three boarding houses are outside the main site on public roads.
Following a recent incident when some pupils were absent without leave at night a re- evaluation of the security arrangements is to take place. Mrs Randall has to persuade staff to undertake additional duties at the end of what are very full and tiring days.
Members of the public use the college’s squash courts and other sporting facilities for organised sessions.
The inspectors’ view that the boarding and day provision should be separated has already been aired. A close examination of the standards suggests that the letter of this standard is met.
Framlingham College Page 49 Standard 42 (42.1 - 42.14) Sleeping accommodation is suitably furnished and of sufficient size for the number, needs and ages of boarders accommodated, with appropriate separation between genders, age groups and from accommodation for adults. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Beds and bedding are adequate although pupils did report variously on the comfort of the sleeping arrangements. Some girls complained about the construction of beds with potentially dangerous metal sticking out. This was immediately brought to the attention often Head.
There is some overcrowding, acknowledged by Mrs Randall, and some inappropriate use of bunk beds.
There are separate boarding arrangements for boys and girls.
Staff facilities are fully separated.
One young member of staff who lives in accommodation adjacent to pupils commented on the fact that a fire evacuation route goes through her bedroom. When inspectors checked with the Head on this matter they were informed that the member of staff concerned had been offered a ‘break bolt’ arrangement that would safeguard her privacy.
Some pupils share bedrooms, but there are a number of small, single occupancy studies available. While the School Premises Regulations 1999 should be taken into account, the general view is that small, single studies are preferable to larger, multi-occupancy rooms.
On balance, the standard is met, although inspectors would wish Mrs Randall to look seriously at the continued use of bunk beds and only use them for pupils beyond Yr.8 if it is unavoidable.
Standard 43 (43.1 – 43.2) Suitable facilities for both organised and private study are available to boarders. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Arrangements for pupils to do prep are adequate. Study facilities are conveniently situated. Most boarders have individual study areas in their bedroom or communal facilities close by.
The standard is met.
Framlingham College Page 50 Standard 44 (44.1 - 44.10) Adequate toilet and washing facilities are readily accessible to boarders, with appropriate privacy. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Inspectors assessed washing and toilet facilities as follows:-
• Rendlesham, currently 46 boys – 9 WC’s, 11 urinals, 22 wash hand basins and 8 showers and 1 bath. • Moreau, currently 36 girls – 10 WC’s (including 1 for disabled use), wash hand basins in every bedroom, 7 showers and 1 bath. • Victoria, currently 44 girls – 12 WC’s, wash hand basins in every bedroom plus an additional 6, 9 showers and 2 baths • Kerrison, currently 49 boys – 11 WC’s and 6 urinals, 16 wash hand basins, plus 1 in each of the ‘extension’ room and 11 showers • Garrett, currently 49 boys – 8 WC’s and 4 urinals, 9 wash hand basins, 8 showers and 1 bath • Stradbroke, currently 46 boys – 9 WC’s and 8 urinals, 12 wash hand basins, 10 showers and 1 bath • Pembroke, currently 27 girls – 9 WC’s, 8 showers and 1 bath. Number of wash hand basins not known.
Taking the required ratio of wash hand basins to pupils to be 1:3, it can be seen that the numbers in Garrett and Stradbroke do not achieve the basic minimum requirement.
In all other respects the required ratios are met.
Some complaint was heard about the availability of hot water at times.
Some female pupils said that sani bins are not emptied often enough.
Refurbishment in Garrett will improve facilities in the near future.
On balance, the standard is met.
Standard 45 (45.1 – 45.3) Suitable changing provision is provided for use by day. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Changing facilities are satisfactory.
Baskets are available in which to place dirty sports kit and uniform.
The standard is met.
Framlingham College Page 51 Standard 46 (46.1 - 46.6) Boarders have access to a range and choice of safe recreational areas, both indoors and outdoors. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Framlingham College stands on an extensive campus with a range of indoor and outdoor facilities, including a small golf course, sports fields, all-weather surface, music school, swimming pool and sports hall.
Each boarding house has a common room that is, by definition, shared by all boarders. Some have additional games areas. Pupils did comment on the formality of the arrangements, with chairs placed around the perimeter. The girls, especially, would like soft chairs or beanbags – something to soften the atmosphere and make it more homely.
In a site of this size it is not difficult for an individual boarder to find a safe place in which to be alone, if wished. Students mentioned the library as somewhere quiet to retreat to.
Access to boarding house during the day is not encouraged, but reasonably free. Some changing into sports kit takes place in boarding houses.
Pupils told inspectors that tutors sometimes take small groups to their private accommodation and they clearly appreciated this and felt special. While this might be a wholly acceptable outing, Mrs Randall is advised to remind staff who do this to be especially mindful of the safeguards to protect themselves and pupils.
The standard is met.
Standard 47 (47.1 – 47.9) Indoor and outdoor areas used by, or accessible to, boarders should be free from reasonably avoidable safety hazards. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 Pupils mentioned only one potentially hazardous matter to inspectors and that involved pieces of metal that stuck out from beds. This was passed to the Head for action.
Some windows above the ground floor are not fitted with restrictors.
Areas such as swimming pool, sports hall and playing fields are covered by risk assessments.
Pupils clearly know where they are allowed to go and what is out of bounds.
The road which students have to cross to get to 3 boarding houses poses possible danger at times, especially during rush hour and the ‘school run’, but the local authority are unwilling to install suitable traffic calming methods. The Head has approached them and it is not the college’s fault that there is no pedestrian crossing or traffic lights. Students who live in boarding accommodation across the road should be reminded regularly of the dangers and given road safety advice.
Once window restrictors are fitted the standard will be met.
Framlingham College Page 52 Standard 48 (48.1 – 48.4) Suitable accommodation should be available for the separate care of boarders who are ill. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The college has a Sanatorium with two trained nurses. The accommodation allows students who are ill to have a lie down for a short time, or if quite unwell and ‘isolation’ is necessary and they are not able to go home, they can stay overnight with supervision.
There are separate facilities for male and female pupils, each with a bathroom close by.
The décor is rather stark and not very welcoming. It is not a homely place in which to be ill.
But the standard is met.
Standard 49 (49.1 - 49.3) Adequate laundry provision is made for boarders' clothing and bedding. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Pupils reported that laundry arrangements are acceptable with items of uniform being collected and returned on a regular basis. Few problems appear to exist in this regard.
Personal clothing can be sent in and laundered. Arrangements can be made for dry- cleaning.
Bedding is washed and replaced regularly.
Clean items are placed by house Matrons in pigeon holes for collection by pupils.
The standard is met.
Standard 50 (50.1 - 50.2) Boarders are able to obtain minor necessary personal and stationery items while accommodated at school. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Students have access to shops in the town close by.
The standard is met.
Standard 51 (51.1 - 51.11) Any lodgings arranged by the school to accommodate pupils provide satisfactory accommodation and supervision, are checked by the school before use, and are monitored by the school during use. Standard met? 9 Mrs Randall confirmed that the college does not have any pupils in lodgings and therefore the standard is not applicable.
Framlingham College Page 53 Standard 52 (52.1 - 52.8) Any off-site short-stay accommodation arranged by the school for any of its boarders provides satisfactory accommodation and supervision, is checked by the school before use (although this may not be feasible when accommodation is in private households), and is monitored by the school during use. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The inspectors had a long discussion on this matter with the senior member of staff responsible for health and safety. He confirmed that the college does use accommodation away from the site, but more often than not in premises that are well known to staff as they have been using them for a number of years.
However, it is not always possible to check out completely the accommodation for some trips and outings, including some involving adventurous pursuits such as Duke of Edinburgh awards, the Cadet Force or World Challenge Expeditions that included an element of independent living.
The senior person concerned does insist on rigorous paperwork being completed beforehand. This seemed to inspectors to be an acceptable course.
The standard is met.
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PART C LAY ASSESSOR’S SUMMARY (where applicable) A lay Assessor was not part of the inspection team, but a Boarding School Professional Inspector accompanied the two National Care Standards Commission inspectors throughout the 3 days. Her comments and observations have been woven in to the body of the report.
Lay Assessor Signature
Date
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PART D HEAD’S RESPONSE
D.1 Head’s comments/confirmation relating to the content and accuracy of the report for the above inspection.
We would welcome comments on the content of this report relating to the Inspection conducted on 30/9/03 of Framlingham college and any factual inaccuracies:
Please limit your comments to one side of A4 if possible
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Action taken by the NCSC in response to Head’s comments:
Amendments to the report were necessary YES
Comments were received from the Head YES
Head’s comments/factual amendments were incorporated into the final NO inspection report
Head’s comments are available on file at the Area Office but have not been YES incorporated into the final inspection report. The inspector believes the report to be factually accurate
Note: In instances where there is a major difference of view between the Inspector and the Head both views will be made available on request to the Area Office.
D.2 Please provide the Commission with a written Action Plan by , which indicates how recommended actions and advisory recommendations are to be addressed and stating a clear timescale for completion. This will be kept on file and made available on request.
Status of the Head’s Action Plan at time of publication of the final inspection report:
Action plan was required
Action plan was received at the point of publication
Action plan covers all the recommended actions in a timely fashion
Action plan did not cover all the recommended actions and required further
discussion
Head has declined to provide an action plan
Other: ACTION PLAN WAS RECEIVED AND COVERS MANY RECOMMENDED ACTIONS. THE HEAD HAS DECLINED TO ACCEPT YES SOME RECOMMENDATIONS REFUTING THE INSPECTORS COMMENTS.
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D.3 HEAD’S AGREEMENT
Head’s statement of agreement/comments: Please complete the relevant section that applies.
D.3.2 I G M RANDALL of FRAMLIGHAM COLLEGE am unable to confirm that the contents of this report are a fair and accurate representation of the facts relating to the inspection conducted on the above date(s) for the following reasons:
PLEASE SEE MY FORMAL RESPONSE
(KEPT ON FILE IN OFFICE)
Print Name G M RANDALL
Signature G M Randall
Designation Head
Date 20/5/04
Note: In instance where there is a profound difference of view between the Inspector and the Head both views will be reported. Please attach any extra pages, as applicable.
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