Merryfields School is a very special place, where pupils and staff work well together. Pupils thrive, because cheerful staff provide good-quality care and well-planned lessons. Pupils get the support they need so that barriers to learning are overcome quickly. Developing communication skills is a priority. Pupils find their ‘voice’ quickly, while staff listen to make sure pupils are heard and valued. Pupils behave well in classes, around the school and at playtimes. This is because staff understand the individual needs of the pupils well. They create a calm, inclusive atmosphere which helps pupils to feel safe and secure. Bullying is very rare. Any that does happen is dealt with quickly by leaders. The school’s new motto of ‘Nurturing a love of learning for life’ is the cornerstone of everything they do. Pupils are valued as individuals, and this inspires learning. The choir is a strength of the school. Here pupils find their voice, sign clearly and sing tunefully. Staff go the extra mile to make sure learning makes a difference out of the school as well as in the school. Parents and carers feel that Merryfields is an ‘excellent family’. We agree.