The Independent School Standards (Wales) Regulations 2003

Premises of and boarding accommodation at schools

5.  The school premises and boarding accommodation meet the standard if —

(a)the water supply meets the requirements of the 1999 Regulations;

(b)there is an adequate drainage system for hygienic purposes and the disposal of waste water and surface water;

(c)each load bearing structure is satisfactory in accordance with the 1999 Regulations;

(d)the school has adequate security arrangements for the grounds and buildings;

(e)premises which are used for another purpose other than conducting the school are organised to ensure that the health, safety and welfare of pupils are safeguarded and their education is not interrupted by other users;

(f)the school buildings provide reasonable resistance to penetration by rain, snow, wind and moisture from the ground;

(g)there is sufficient access so that emergency evacuations can be accomplished safely for all pupils, particularly those with special needs;

(h)access to the school allows all pupils, including those with special needs, to enter and leave the school in safety and comfort(1);

(i)the premises have not been condemned by the Environmental Health Authority;

(j)having regard to the number, age and needs (including any special needs) of pupils, classrooms are appropriate in size to allow effective teaching and do not compromise health or safety;

(k)there are sufficient washrooms for staff and pupils, including facilities for pupils with special needs, taking account of the 1999 Regulations;

(l)there are appropriate facilities for pupils who are ill in accordance with the 1999 Regulations;

(m)where food and drink is served, there are adequate facilities for its hygienic preparation, service and consumption;

(n)classrooms and other parts of the school are maintained in a tidy, clean and hygienic state;

(o)sound insulation and acoustics allow effective teaching and communication;

(p)lighting, heating and ventilation in classrooms and other parts of the school are satisfactory in accordance with the 1999 Regulations;

(q)there is a satisfactory standard and adequate maintenance of decoration;

(r)the furniture and fittings are appropriately designed for the age and needs (including any special needs) of all pupils registered at the school;

(s)there is appropriate flooring in good condition;

(t)there are appropriate arrangements for providing outside space for pupils to play safely;

(u)where boarding accommodation is provided, it has regard to Standards 40-52 of the National Minimum Standards for Boarding Schools 2003 or, where applicable, Standards 23-26 of the National Minimum Standards for Residential Special Schools 2003; and

(v)The premises comply with the requirements of the Disability Discrimination (Prescribed Periods for Accessibility, Strategies and Plans for Schools) (Wales) Regulations 2003(2).