Staff at the North West London Independent Special School know pupils well. They take time to understand pupils’ individual needs and build positive relationships with them. One pupil, speaking for many, told inspectors, ‘Because of this school and the time taken by staff to understand our needs, we have been given the opportunity to succeed.’ Pupils achieve well because of the care and support they receive. Pupils are happy and behave well. They settle quickly because the routines and expectations from adults and leaders are clear. Pupils enjoy school and make positive contributions to lessons. Staff are always positive when managing difficult behaviour. Staff are calm and responsive to pupils’ needs even when pupils are upset. Leaders do not tolerate incidents of bullying. Leaders ensure that pupils feel safe and know where to go if they have a concern. Leaders have high expectations for what they want pupils to learn. Leaders have prioritised the need for pupils to leave the school with key knowledge and skills in English, mathematics, science and the wider curriculum. Leaders also ensure that pupils complete qualifications in other areas such as art and physical education. Leaders are keen to extend pupils’ experiences beyond the classroom through visits to galleries and lunchtime clubs such as art and sport.