Andalusia Academy Muslim school: Ofsted says 'pupils not safe'

Andalusia Academy opened in 2005 and is operated by the Bristol Islamic Schools Trust

An independent Muslim faith school where "pupils are not safe and exposed to unnecessary risks" has been rated "inadequate" by Ofsted.

The watchdog said admissions registers at Bristol's Andalusia Academy were inaccurate and the school failed to check up on absent pupils.

But Ofsted said the school created a "positive British Muslim identity among pupils" and "promoted British values".

The school said it was "disappointed" and now had a new leadership team.

The education watchdog said the independent school had "not been vigilant over time in ensuring that it rigorously follows up absences or requests for prolonged holidays".

It said Andalusia Academy "failed to carry out its statutory duty" to inform the appropriate authorities when pupils had failed to attend.

'Issues addressed'

"These shortcomings expose children to significant risks and as a result they are not safe," it said.

Inspectors also said the "progress of secondary boys in particular" was "not good enough".

The report found governance to be "weak" and said both the leaders' and trustees' understanding of the independent school standards were "poor".

Andalusia Academy said the "challenges it [the report] presents us with will be met vigorously".

The school said it took safeguarding seriously and had addressed issues identified by Ofsted.

'Appropriate action'

It also said Ofsted's's report had not "reflected the academic success and attainment of our students".

Bristol City Council said it was "responsible for ensuring all children in Bristol are safe" and it was working with the school on Ofsted's concerns.

The Department for Education said all independent schools must meet regulatory standards.

"We are considering the most appropriate course of action for Andalusia Academy following the recent Ofsted inspection," it said.

Andalusia Academy has 307 pupils aged four to 16. Annual fees range from £2,750-£3,350.

The children are mainly of Pakistani or Somali heritage.