Pupils at Highfield Ely Academy love coming to school. This starts from the moment they arrive in the morning, when staff greet them with a warm welcome. Staff have an excellent understanding of pupils’ varied and complex needs. They care for pupils exceptionally well. Consequently, pupils happily settle into school. They are safe and secure in the stimulating learning environment. Pupils benefit from a broad and engaging curriculum which meets their varied needs. This enables them to flourish as individuals and enhances their lives. The focus on communication ensures that pupils can communicate and express themselves. This gives them a ‘voice’ when they may not previously have had one. Lessons are purposeful and engaging because staff know what motivates pupils. This ensures that pupils engage well in their learning. Pupils learn to recognise when they are getting upset or becoming unsettled. When this happens, staff provide highly effective support. This helps pupils to be successful. A wide variety of carefully planned additional experiences complement pupils’ learning in the classroom. The school brings learning to life through opportunities such as their adapted Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, the Duchess of Ely Award, or the chance to work on their own farm. Pupils enjoy and benefit from this wide-ranging offer.