Walnut Tree Lodge School provides a safe space in which pupils can thrive. When a new pupil joins, staff are sensitive to their individual needs. Pupils come from challenging circumstances. Staff support them effectively. Over time, pupils develop strong, trusting relationships with the adults who work with them. The school’s calm indoor spaces, and peaceful rural location help pupils to grow, emotionally and academically. Caring staff celebrate pupils’ achievements. They help pupils to develop a sense of pride in their endeavours. The school is ambitious for pupils, regardless of their starting points. Typically, pupils work hard in lessons, often producing high-quality work. Pupils achieve well. Many obtain appropriate qualifications and move on to further study when they leave. Pupils have significant social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs. They often struggle to control their feelings. However, the school’s clear boundaries and routines help pupils to understand the adults’ expectations of their behaviour. Pupils learn to manage their emotions, so that they are increasingly able to be successful learners. A range of enrichment activities extend pupils’ learning beyond the curriculum. For example, pupils learn to garden and cook. They visit the nearby farm shop to buy plants or ingredients. These activities help to build their self-esteem and confidence.