Cornerstone Academy is a happy, caring school. Pupils who previously have been disengaged from education thrive and achieve well. The proprietor body, leaders and staff have high expectations of all pupils. With expert help, pupils overcome barriers that get in the way of their learning. They learn how to manage their behaviour. Pupils take pride in their good-quality work. Pupils who spoke with inspectors made comments similar to this from one pupil, ‘Cornerstone has changed my life for the better.’ After a short-term placement, pupils move to the next stage of their education confidently. Most pupils return to mainstream education. Pupils said that they feel happy and safe at school. They are confident that adults will listen to them and deal with any bullying if it ever occurs. Pupils’ high attendance reflects the renewed enjoyment of education that they find in this school. Pupils are typically interested in what they learn, and they work hard in lessons. Pupils develop positive relationships with each other, their teachers and learning mentors. At social times, they are respectful and polite to each other. Pupils enjoy the broad and rich curriculum. In outdoor education, for example, pupils learn to collaborate with peers and overcome challenges.