Ash Lea is a warm and welcoming school. Pupils enjoy coming to this friendly school. They know that staff care for them. Pupils feel safe here. Expectations of behaviour and academic success are high. Staff strive for pupils across all pathways and in the sixth form to be successful in all they do. The school skilfully helps pupils to regulate their own behaviour and manage their emotions. Staff are expert at identifying when pupils experience distress or discomfort. They respond quickly and sensitively. Staff have a thorough understanding of pupils’ unique and complex needs. This, along with an aspirational curriculum, ensures that pupils are well prepared for their next steps in education. A personalised approach to teaching and carefully targeted interventions help pupils gain a deeper understanding of themselves. As a result, pupils are increasingly able to let adults know their preferences and what they understand. The school’s provision for pupils’ personal development plays a major role in preparing them effectively for the future. Staff carefully plan rich experiences for pupils which help them to grow in their understanding of the local area and beyond. For example, regular visits to local cafés, shops and residential trips. Pupils relish these and thrive as a result.