Staff and pupils typically describe this school as a ‘family’. Staff get to know pupils well and build effective working relationships with them. Pupils are positive about the school and appreciate that staff take time to understand them and their needs. They are well supported to get back on track when things get difficult. Their behaviour improves over time and classrooms are places where pupils can learn. The school provides a wide range of opportunities to nurture and develop pupils’ selfesteem, confidence, resilience and social skills. For example, staff offer a range of off-site activities, including ice-skating and residential trips. There is a strong sense that pupils are ready to provide help and support to one another. They are encouraged to play an active part in the school community. For instance, pupils cook collectively for one another and take part in sports competitions. The school ensures that pupils are taught a range of academic and vocational subjects. Some of these are carefully planned, and overall pupils achieve well. In other subjects, curriculum thinking is not so clear. Where this is the case, pupils do not routinely build on what they have learned previously in order to secure their knowledge and understanding.