David Lewis School is a place where pupils, who have complex special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), are happy and feel valued. The school helps pupils to develop socially and emotionally in a caring environment. Pupils rise to the high expectations set by the school and achieve well. Prior to attending the school, many pupils have not had a successful educational experience. Staff foster trusting and nurturing relationships with pupils. This helps to reassure pupils and to improve their behaviour over time. Pupils learn to respect differences between people. They allow their peers to contribute ideas in lessons. Pupils speak enthusiastically about a variety of activities that they can take part in, such as swimming, walking, sports and cycling. These promote their mental health and wellbeing. Pupils gain valuable work-related skills by helping to run the school shop and the ‘Doggylicious’ dog grooming parlour. Visits to local supermarkets to purchase food for cooking enable pupils to develop their communication skills, confidence and independence. Pupils on the school council have a voice in decision-making in the school. They organise the lunchtime club, vote for specific trips and decide on themes for events, such as the summer ball and Christmas party.