Pupils feel safe at Central Education. Many have previously had negative experiences of schooling and have missed considerable chunks of their learning. They describe the school community as a ‘family’ and welcome the time and attention they are given. However, too many do not come to school often enough. Leaders have high expectations for pupils’ conduct. Pupils are well looked after by the dedicated team of staff who care deeply about them. Pupils get to explore their talents, such as fishing, golf and gardening, with staff who share the same interests. Pastoral support is strong. Pupils choose their own mentors and learn to trust adults to help them manage and resolve conflicts, including instances of bullying. This helps them re-engage successfully into education, gaining the qualifications they need to access further study. Pupils value the specialist opportunities the school offers, such as metal work and wood turning. The school’s horticultural garden provides a sense of pride for the pupils who are keen to share the produce with visitors. For many, these experiences open the door for potential career options they had not considered previously. However, the school’s ambition for pupils’ achievement in some other subjects is not realised. Pupils do not learn consistently well across all curriculum subjects.