Pupils learn to be comfortable being themselves at Great Oaks Small School. Together, staff and pupils ensure that every pupil is welcomed into the school community. When pupils start at the school, they often have low confidence. Staff support pupils sensitively to reengage with school and rediscover a love of learning. The school has high expectations of every pupil. Staff are guided by the school’s vision of achieving excellence. Pupils are expected to work hard at their academic studies, but also to learn how to be good citizens so that they earn a valued place in society. Pupils have worked with staff to redevelop the school values of ‘Be Kind – Be Curious – Be You!’. These values guide the way that staff work with pupils, as well as how pupils learn and interact with each other. Staff are attentive to pupils’ interests and talents. Pupils are taught that they can contribute meaningfully, both within and beyond the school. Pupils appreciate the way the school day is designed to enable them to make choices about how to spend their free time. For example, a range of clubs run at lunchtime. Staff are available to support positive social interactions, but pupils might also choose to use their breaktimes to have quiet time.