This is a very special school. Staff are dedicated and knowledgeable. Leaders have a clarity of vision and expertise that have ensured that this new school is good and improving. They expect the best of pupils and staff alike. They also work incredibly hard and have high expectations of themselves. In particular, they lead from the front. The vast majority of pupils thrive here, despite their very complex needs. For the most part, their behaviour is good. Pupils, parents and carers, and staff believe that bullying is either rare or non-existent. It was clear to inspectors that staff deal with problems very well when pupils’ relationships are at risk of becoming strained. The curriculum provides a good balance between pupils’ academic and social and emotional development. Because of this, pupils’ personal development is promoted exceptionally well and is a great strength of the school. Most pupils join the school after being out of full-time education for long periods of time, often for a number of years. Staff understand this and work hard to provide pupils with the motivation and confidence to believe in themselves once more. As a result, pupils flourish, make new friends, and enjoy becoming successful learners once more.