This is a highly nurturing school. Whether pupils join from the start, in the early years, or later in their educational journey, they get the right support straight away. This enables pupils to settle well and feel part of the ‘Meadowgate family’. Pupils grow in confidence as they acquire and practise new social and learning skills. Staff have high expectations for pupils, whatever their starting points and challenges. They have a relentless focus on finding the best way to meet the needs of pupils. They review and adjust their provision to do this. Staff work collaboratively with other specialist professionals and families to understand pupils’ needs. As a result, they put effective strategies in place so that pupils can succeed. Older pupils develop the independence and resilience they need for their next steps in life. Behaviour around the school is good. Pupils feel secure in the well-established routines and expectations throughout the day. As a result, the school provides an oasis of calm for pupils. They learn how to work and play alongside, and sometimes with, each other. Staff are universally encouraging, striving to spot and celebrate even the smallest successes from the start.