This is a school that believes in its pupils and encourages them to believe in themselves. Developing pupils personally, emotionally and socially is a priority. Pupils’ mental health is highly valued. This aspirational school sees this vital work as all part of ensuring that pupils thrive and succeed academically. Many pupils arrive with negative prior experiences of school. They benefit from a school that truly understands and supports them but, as one parent put it, does ‘not wrap them in cotton wool’. Instead, as part of their learning, pupils can enjoy regular educational visits abroad, for example, as well as activities including horse riding, hiking, theatre and museum trips. Pupils’ focus and commitment to their work is remarkable. The studious but friendly atmosphere, and patient, personalised teaching support their learning well. Pupils that have often been bullied in their previous schools usually experience a much happier time here, where any intolerance is successfully challenged. Bullying is rare and tackled firmly should it happen. Pupils select their own trusted adults as their mentors but know that there is always somebody available to help, guide and support them.