Gateways School

Gateways School, located in Harewood, West Yorkshire, is an independent day school that serves students from the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) through to the sixth form. The school is organized into four sections: EYFS, prep school, high school, and sixth form, with the EYFS and prep school being fully co-educational. The high school and sixth form are transitioning to co-educational formats, having admitted male pupils into Year 7 since September 2019. The school aims to provide a personal education that prioritizes individual needs, fostering an environment where students feel happy, safe, and secure while being both challenged and supported. The academic program is designed to maintain high standards and promote caring relationships among all members of the school community.

The student body is diverse, with pupils coming from various professional and business backgrounds, primarily residing in the local area. The school has identified 114 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), including conditions such as dyslexia and dyspraxia, with 53 receiving additional specialist support. One pupil has an education, health, and care plan (EHCP), and 14 pupils are identified as having English as an additional language (EAL), with their needs being supported by classroom teachers. The school also recognizes nine pupils as the most able and modifies the curriculum for them, as well as for 17 other pupils with special talents in sports or the performing arts.

The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) conducted a compliance-only inspection of Gateways School in February 2023, focusing on the school's adherence to the Independent School Standards and relevant requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage statutory framework. The inspection confirmed that the school meets all applicable standards, with no further action required as a result of the inspection.

In terms of educational quality, the school’s assessment framework indicates that teaching enables pupils to make good progress. This is evident in the prep school, where the framework confirms effective teaching practices, and in the senior school, where GCSE and A-level results from 2021 to 2022 reflect similar progress. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work, ensuring a breadth of material that meets the required standards. The teaching methods employed promote good progress and effective behavior management, supported by suitable resources. The school provides relationships education in the prep school and relationships and sex education in the senior school, adhering to statutory guidance and consulting parents on its policy.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, fostering responsible and tolerant citizens. The school’s principles and values facilitate personal development, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for their roles in society. The standards related to this aspect of education are met, demonstrating the school’s commitment to holistic development.

Regarding the welfare, health, and safety of pupils, the school has established arrangements that comply with current statutory guidance. Good behavior is promoted, and measures are in place to prevent bullying. Health and safety requirements are met, including fire safety provisions, and adequate first aid arrangements are in place. The school maintains proper supervision of pupils, keeps admission and attendance registers as required, and adopts a strategic approach to risk assessment. A disability access plan is also in place, ensuring that the school is accessible to all pupils.

The school conducts appropriate checks to ensure the suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors, maintaining a register as required. This ensures that all individuals in contact with pupils are suitable for their roles, thereby safeguarding the welfare of the students. The standards related to the suitability of staff are met, reflecting the school’s commitment to maintaining a safe environment for its pupils.

The premises and accommodation at Gateways School are suitable for the needs of the pupils. The school provides adequate toilet and changing facilities, as well as appropriate accommodation for medical and therapy needs. The premises are maintained to a standard that meets health and safety requirements, with appropriate acoustics and lighting. Water provision is adequate, and suitable outdoor space is available for physical education and outdoor play, ensuring that pupils have access to necessary facilities for their development.

The school publishes a range of information for parents, inspectors, and the Department for Education, including details about the proprietor, the school’s ethos, curriculum, and arrangements for admission, behavior, and exclusions. The school’s safeguarding policy is readily available on its website, and it provides information on the number of complaints registered under the formal procedure during the preceding school year. This transparency ensures that parents are well-informed about the school’s operations and policies.

Complaints from parents are handled effectively through a structured three-stage process, which includes informal discussions, formal complaints, and a hearing before an independent panel. Each stage has clear time scales, and the panel can make findings and recommendations communicated to the complainant. Records of complaints and actions taken are maintained appropriately, ensuring accountability and responsiveness to parental concerns.

The leadership and management of the school demonstrate good skills and knowledge, fulfilling their responsibilities effectively to ensure that all standards are consistently met. The proprietor actively promotes the well-being of pupils, reflecting a commitment to maintaining a high-quality educational environment. The standards related to leadership and management are met, indicating that the school is well-governed and managed.

In summary, Gateways School has successfully demonstrated compliance with the Independent School Standards and relevant regulations. The school provides a supportive and challenging educational environment, promotes the personal development of pupils, and ensures their welfare and safety. The leadership and management are effective, and the school is committed to continuous improvement and high standards of education.