VLC’s vision is to ‘transform the lives of young people through education and care.’ This inspirational school achieves this for all its pupils. Pupils thrive at VLC. They are rightly incredibly proud of their school and their own and others’ achievements. Pupils value the care and support they are given to succeed. They know that trusted adults in school help them. This enables them to feel safe. They say, for example, that VLC is ‘a space to be me’. Leaders’ moral purpose is clear. There is a relentless drive to overcome barriers and raise aspirations. The ‘preparation for adulthood’ curriculum complements the academic curriculum in ensuring pupils are prepared exceptionally well for life beyond school. Pupils benefit from a rich set of personal development opportunities. For example, they learn important life skills by preparing a wide range of food from around the world. Rock climbing and dance help pupils develop talents and interests. Pupils play an active role in their community, for example by organising a fair to raise money for medical equipment and by singing Christmas carols in a local nursing home. Parents and carers speak incredibly highly of the school, with many saying that VLC is ‘exceptional’ and ‘life-changing’.