Pupils at Portesham are known as individuals. Staff take the time to get to know pupils and their interests. Pupils feel comfortable and able to share any concerns. Staff support pupils to demonstrate the school’s values of ‘hope, service and compassion’. A culture of inclusivity pervades the school. This is demonstrated by the school’s tremendous work to wholeheartedly embrace refugees who come to learn at the school for short periods of time. Pupils develop a strong sense of compassion for one another. The school has high ambition for pupils. Pupils rise to this, as demonstrated by their secure curriculum knowledge. The school’s policy makes clear how pupils should behave. As a result, pupils are attentive in lessons and focus on their learning. Pupils experience a rich array of activities to develop their talents and interests. Junk modelling and nature club are popular. Pupils are community-minded. They are proud of how their ‘French café’ has helped to raise money for charity. The school offers trips to restaurants to help pupils learn about how to cook healthy food, setting them up well for adult life. Pupils get the opportunity to go paddle boarding and visit farms to enhance their knowledge of the wider world.