Pupils quickly settle at Aurora Hedgeway School and begin to thrive. Many have had negative experiences of education in the past, including lengthy periods where they did not attend school at all. Pupils enjoy school and trust that staff will help them. They attend well as a result. Warm relationships underpin the calm, friendly school environment. Pupils are empathetic and respectful towards their peers, encouraging and supporting those who are experiencing difficulties. Pupils learn without interruption because the curriculum is well matched to their needs and starting points. The school has high aspirations for what pupils can achieve. Pupils become more confident in their abilities. They learn to persist when they face challenges. This enables them to succeed academically and socially. Opportunities for wider development are extensive. Every pupil has a rich set of experiences that help them to broaden their horizons and enhance their childhood. For instance, pupils attend a formal celebration event to mark the end of Year 11. They take part in competitive sporting activities, which help them build their confidence and resilience. Events such as school fairs enable pupils to share their pride in what they have achieved with their families.