Suggested Checklists for commissioning
Whilst Newcastle City Council has compiled this brochure to support schools to make AP placements, the responsibility remains with the school to ensure there the appropriate checks and balances are in place.
Schools should check the registration status of each provider and whether they should be registered if they are not. Never use provision which contravenes the registration regulations; if you believe they are operating as an illegal school please contact the Local Authority immediately.
Schools should check provider’s policies and procedures, which should include but are not limited to:
- The written behaviour policy setting out amongst other matters the sanctions to be adopted in the event of pupil misbehaviour
- Detailed curriculum plans and schemes of work, and student assessment procedures
- Their arrangements to safeguard and promote the welfare of pupils and how those arrangements have regard to DfE guidance: Keeping Children Safe in Education and Working Together
- Anti-bullying policy
- Health and safety policy
- Complaints procedure
- Quality of accommodation – this should include a site visit
- Qualifications and experience of staff
- Arrangements for administering First Aid
- Fire risk assessment and procedures
- Recruitment and vetting checks for staff and management
Schools should give providers information in writing about social networking, the use of social media and e-safety, making the school’s expectations clear.
Schools should give providers information in writing about the school’s expectations for child protection and procedures they should follow if they have a concern about a pupil.
Schools should give providers information in writing about how the school should be informed of attendance and agree the subsequent follow up of absence.
Schools should ensure that the provider is transparent with costs and that the service you are commissioning is value for money and appropriate to the needs of the child/young person.
There should be a clear understanding of how and when to end a placement.