Before attending Ian Mikardo School, pupils have often had negative experiences of school. Staff work hard to understand pupils’ social, emotional and mental health needs. They support pupils very well to help them manage their feelings and emotions. Consequently, pupils generally behave well. Nearly all are confident that bullying will be dealt with well. Leaders make decisions based on what they believe is best for pupils, and have high expectations for all. This is at the centre of the school’s ethos. Extra support is always on hand for pupils who have high levels of need. This helps pupils to be ready to deal with anxieties and to take pride in their achievements. The parents and carers whom inspectors spoke to during the inspection agreed that their children enjoy coming to school. These parents said that the school is making a positive difference to their child’s life. Pupils appreciate the care and support that staff give them and feel safe and secure in school. They also appreciate the wider opportunities the school provides, such as trips to London Zoo, the forest school and local parks. The wider curriculum experiences enhance pupils’ enjoyment of school.