In response to requests from schools we have developed a robust improvement package that results in the achievement of the Prospects Quality Mark.

In order to achieve the award the school’s leaders, with the support of one of our advisers, work through a process of identifying their strengths and area for development. This rigorous initial assessment is followed up on a progress review visit when the adviser carries out an interim assessment of the progress so far, approximately three months after the initial visit. The adviser produces reports on what has been agreed and the school develops an action plan that includes key performance indicators. When the school is ready, usually after about six months, an assessor visits to evaluate the school’s success and achievements. The whole process includes intensive and bespoke support.

The Quality Mark is appropriate for all schools but takes account of the different contexts in which they operate and their current outcomes. It explores schools’ understanding and accuracy of evidence evaluation, in for example, ECM outcomes for learners, including multi agency and partnership working and the specific issues related to ‘hard to reach families’ and “at risk” children. It examines provision, and the school’s awareness of the impact of the quality of teaching, curriculum and support systems on pupil achievement.  It also examines school leadership structures and impact through empowerment of middle leaders on attainment and standards. However, this Quality Mark is primarily about the pupils themselves, and ensuring that they can each flourish and grow within their school experience, offering them the opportunity to reach their potential.

The Quality Mark has already been successfully awarded in several schools and has added much to their confidence in the process of school improvement as well as equipping them for their Ofsted inspection. A particular success of the Quality Mark process has been in deepening the staff’s understanding of the nature of leadership, by identifying the skills and qualities they already possess and by empowering them to make a significant impact on the life and work of the school.

 Prospects’ Quality Mark will attract:

•  Outstanding schools, looking for further endorsement of quality and a new challenge, (Platinum Award),
• Good schools aspiring to outstanding, (Gold Award).
• Satisfactory schools, aspiring to good, working towards the standard accreditation.

 Schools can request a subsequent review, (within one year), to upgrade their award. The accreditation lasts for three years.

The Prospects’ Quality Mark has been competitively priced to ensure that as many schools as possible have the opportunity to participate. The package costs £2,100 and includes three consultancy days to support and assess the school’s strengths and area for development, the Quality Mark Handbook and supporting documentation and detailed guidance on producing the initial and interim audits.

The cost of the Quality Mark is £2,100 which includes the self evaluation audit schedule, three days consultancy and other support as needed. The cost can be spread over two financial years.

To register for the Prospects Quality Mark accreditation please complete the application form.

For further information please contact trevor.davies@prospects.co.uk or sean.o’toole@prospects.co.uk