Senior leaders, including governors, have not taken appropriate action to ensure that safeguarding arrangements are effective. Staff do not have knowledge of the safeguarding risks that pupils may face. Leaders have not ensured that timely and appropriate action is taken to protect pupils who are at risk. Leaders do not have high enough expectations of pupils. A poorly planned curriculum and a lack of ambition for what pupils can achieve have hampered pupils’ progress in some subjects. While pupils’ communication needs are well supported, pupils who need help to learn to read do not get the effective support they need. There is an inclusive environment in this all-through school. All pupils have an education, health and care plan. Many pupils have complex needs. They are well supported by kind adults who are attentive to their care needs. Staff are skilful at listening to pupils and responding to their verbal and non-verbal communications. Pupils enjoy lessons. Despite the shortcomings in the school’s safeguarding arrangements, pupils feel happy and safe at school. Pupils say that staff resolve any issues involving bullying quickly. The ‘preparing for adulthood’ course threads through from the primary years into the sixth form. It is a strength of the school. Pupils are introduced to employers and are well supported to engage with the wider community. Pupils take part in community and voluntary activities, such as working at a local café.