Pupils thrive at Coxlease School. Adults understand pupils’ needs exceptionally well. They create a positive, safe atmosphere that ensures that pupils settle in quickly. Staff help pupils to understand themselves and others. Staff respond quickly and calmly when a pupil needs extra help to maintain their self-control. Pupils trust adults to help them with any friendship issues that might arise. Several pupils told inspectors how much their behaviour had improved from being at this school. Pupils know that adults have high expectations and want them to succeed. Adults help pupils to develop confidence and independence. Consequently, they become committed to their own learning, attend regularly and take pride in their achievements. Pupils benefit from extensive opportunities to participate in activities that help to develop their character. These include trips to the science museum and the theatre. Pupils participate in a range of extra-curricular clubs, including those for football, dance and the very popular chess club. Pupils are encouraged to think about their future long before it is time for them to leave the school. Older pupils are supported to attend college or one of the school’s specialist vocational learning centres. Several parents and carers praised the school’s work, with one saying that the school, ‘has changed my child’s life for the better’.