The Moat School

The Moat School is an independent day school located in Fulham, London, catering for boys and girls aged between nine and sixteen years. Established in 1998, the school was specifically founded to support pupils with dyslexia and related learning difficulties. In September 2017, the school came under the management of the Cavendish Education Group, which oversees its governance and management. The school is divided into two sections: the Lower School for pupils in Years 5 and 6, and the Upper School for pupils in Years 7 to 11.

Since the last inspection, the school has made significant improvements, including refurbishing its main science classroom and creating a playground designed to support pupils' sensory development. The Moat School aims to identify and nurture the talents and creativity of its pupils, providing a safe and supportive learning environment where they can flourish and achieve their potential. The school's objectives include helping each pupil realize their full intellectual and academic potential, developing self-esteem, skills, and natural abilities, gaining independence in everyday life, and preparing for public examinations for further education or vocational training.

The student body comes from diverse social and cultural backgrounds, residing within a 15-mile radius of the school. Nationally standardized test data indicates that the pupils' abilities are below average, and all students have special educational needs or disabilities, including dyslexia, dyspraxia, high-functioning autism, and associated communication and language difficulties. Seventy-one pupils have an education, health, and care plan, and there are no pupils for whom English is an additional language. The school has identified 18 pupils as the most able, and the curriculum is tailored to meet their needs through modified lessons and enrichment activities.

The inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate focused on the school's compliance with the Independent School Standards Regulations 2014. The inspection confirmed that the school meets all the required standards, and no further action is necessary as a result of this inspection. The inspectors observed lessons, conducted formal interviews with pupils, and examined samples of pupils' work. They also held discussions with staff and governors, observed extracurricular activities, and attended meetings and assemblies.

In terms of educational quality, the school employs its own framework to assess attainment in the Lower School, rather than using the national framework. Performance at GCSE from 2015 to 2017 was below the national average for maintained schools. However, the curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work, covering the required breadth of material. Teaching practices enable pupils to make good progress, with effective behavior management and suitable resources in place. The assessment framework for evaluating pupils' performance is also adequate.

The school actively promotes principles and values that facilitate the personal development of pupils as responsible, tolerant, and law-abiding citizens. The standards related to spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development are met, indicating that the school fosters a positive environment for personal growth.

Regarding the welfare, health, and safety of pupils, the school has established arrangements to safeguard and promote pupils' welfare, adhering to current statutory guidance. Good behavior is encouraged, and measures are in place to prevent bullying. Health and safety requirements are met, including fire safety provisions, and first aid is adequately provided. Pupils are properly supervised, and admission and attendance registers are maintained as required. The school has a strategic approach to risk assessment and has implemented a disability access plan.

The school ensures the suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors through appropriate checks, maintaining a register as required. The premises and accommodation meet the necessary standards, providing suitable toilet and changing facilities, as well as appropriate accommodations for pupils' medical and therapy needs. The school maintains its premises to a standard that meets health and safety requirements, with adequate acoustics, lighting, and water provision. There is also suitable outdoor space for physical education and outdoor play.

The school provides a range of information to parents, inspectors, and the Department for Education, including details about the proprietor, the school's ethos, curriculum, admission arrangements, behavior policies, health and safety measures, and the complaints procedure. The safeguarding policy is available on the school's website, ensuring transparency and accessibility of information.

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 timelines, and the panel can make findings and recommendations communicated to the complainant. Records of complaints and actions taken are maintained appropriately.

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, contributing to a positive school environment.

Overall, the Moat School has established a supportive and nurturing educational environment for pupils with special educational needs, meeting all regulatory standards and providing a framework for personal and academic development. The school's commitment to fostering individual talents and ensuring the welfare of its pupils is evident in its practices and policies, making it a valuable institution for its community.