Most pupils’ educational journey prior to joining Longdon Hall School has been a bumpy and turbulent one. Each pupil joins with unique social and emotional needs, and many have not attended school regularly. Staff know this. They treat each pupil with care and respect, greeting them with a smile each morning. Most pupils attend happily and told inspectors that they feel safe in school. While bullying does sometimes happen, pupils are confident that staff will address issues. Many pupils have struggled as school life has changed since the pandemic began. Changes in leadership and staffing have exaggerated this. New leaders have recognised this. They have introduced a new behaviour policy in response that sets out their expectations for pupils and staff. Staff apply this consistently. The policy reflects leaders’ high expectations. It helps pupils to improve their behaviour but there is still work to do, especially with some older pupils. Pupils enjoy a range of enrichment opportunities, from football coaching to Thai boxing to fishing. There are also well-equipped spaces in school, from music rooms to food technology rooms. Many pupils take advantage of these opportunities. However, the range and scope of this offer does not currently interest and inspire all pupils.