Dryden is a truly exceptional place of calm and, above all, learning. Pupils enjoy arriving at school and they attend well. They make excellent progress towards their personal targets. Staff have very high expectations of what pupils can do and what they could achieve in the future. Pupils and students in the sixth form regularly rise to meet these expectations. Pupils receive the help they need to participate in learning, and they behave very well. Staff support them expertly to understand themselves and those around them. Pupils learn increasingly to self-regulate. Their interactions with each other are kind and considerate. Pupils know staff are there to help them whenever they need it. They appreciate this greatly. Pupils’ experiences help them to grow in their understanding of the local area and beyond. For example, regular trips to different places of worship and the local swimming pool enrich their lives. Students in the sixth form are central to the life of the school. They contribute greatly to the culture of togetherness that exists, often centred around the weekly café. Older students participate in consistent work experience with local businesses. They enjoy this and it helps them to look towards the future with great ambition.