The culture of the school is one of personal care and ambition for all. The value of ‘kindness’ underpins the work of the school to sustain high standards. The school has the highest expectations for the personal development and academic achievement of pupils. As a result, pupils make exceptional progress through the curriculum, and outcomes are high. Pupils treat one another respectfully. ‘The Nest’ pastoral team acts promptly to provide high quality support for pupils when they need it. Sixth-form students train as mentors to work with a few younger pupils. They support pupils on how to frame their thinking and behaviours positively. This helps those pupils to be more successful at school. A cabinet of sixth-form student leaders contributes to key areas across the school, such as diversity and equality. It leads pupil discussion groups and explores what it is like to be a pupil at the school. This rich feedback informs and influences the decisions the school takes. Through hustings events, all pupils contribute their views about the school. The school runs an aspirational programme of over 70 clubs and events. Pupils relish the many ways they explore their interests and talents, and participation is high.