Pupils at St. Philip’s are happy and kept safe. They enjoy positive working relationships with staff and their peers. Pupils particularly enjoy caring for the animals on site, as well as the canine support provided by ‘Bobby’, the school’s therapeutic dog. Leaders have high expectations for what pupils can achieve. They have ensured that pupils study a broad and varied curriculum and there are a range of qualifications available. This offer has been carefully considered with pupils’ future in mind. Preparing pupils for the next stage of their education, employment or training and developing their independence are both central to leaders’ ethos. Leaders have developed well-established, clear and appropriate routines. This means that pupils know what is expected of them and behave well. Bullying is very rare, but when it happens, leaders deal with it swiftly and ensure that it does not persist. All staff are trained mental health first aiders. They are skilled at supporting pupils to become calm when they feel anxious. Pupils experience an extensive range of opportunities that are designed to support their personal development. For example, they attend visits to the theatre, restaurants, sporting fixtures, art galleries and museums. Older pupils also look forward to their residential trip to the Isle of Wight.