Great Oaks is an exceptional school. It is an inspirational place where young people, at all stages of their school life, thrive, both socially and academically. The school is ambitious for every pupil, no matter what their starting points are. Determined staff do everything they can to ensure that pupils enjoy school and benefit from a carefully adapted curriculum. Relationships between staff and pupils are very strong. Staff care for pupils with respect and understanding. This helps pupils to have a strong sense of belonging and feel part of the school community. These relationships, coupled with an exceptionally well-designed curriculum, ensure that pupils achieve highly from their starting points. As a result, pupils gain the skills and knowledge they need for a successful life beyond school. Pupils’ behaviour is remarkable. Where needed, well-trained staff provide expert support to pupils, helping them to regulate their emotions with dignity. Pupils demonstrate an exceptional understanding and appreciation of their peers’ differences and commonalities. Bullying is understood and not tolerated. As a result, the school provides a safe and nurturing sanctuary for young people, from all walks of life, with a range of complex learning difficulties.