Pupils’ development, well-being and happiness are at the centre of everything that happens at The Grove Special School. Teachers know the needs of each individual pupil. They know what each pupil can do. They aim high for each pupil, no matter how significant their needs might be. Each pupil has an individual timetable that supports them with their specific needs. For example, some pupils with physical disabilities spend time in the hydrotherapy pool. Others spend time learning about the world around them through light therapy. Others are taught to read, write and count if they are able to. Teachers are experts at matching what happens in classrooms to the needs of individuals. Staff listen intently to pupils. They learn how individual pupils communicate so that they can hear their opinions and feelings. Staff are tender and patient. They find ways to understand pupils. They unlock pupils’ potential. Pupils feel safe at school. Teachers help them to make friends with each other. There is no bullying or unkind behaviour. The school is one big family that is based on respect. Staff work hard with parents and outside agencies to make sure that pupils have plans for when they leave school. One parent’s comment echoed the views of many, when they said that ‘the school has prepared my son for an independence I never thought possible’.