This is a caring and friendly school for pupils with diverse special needs. Most lack confidence and find relationships difficult when they start school. Leaders and staff work very hard to change this. Many pupils are thriving by the time they leave. Staff are ambitious for their pupils, but most pupils have large gaps in their basic knowledge and skills. The curriculum does not fill these gaps quickly or help pupils learn enough. Leaders and staff are beginning to think more about this. Pupils behave well once they have good relationships with staff. Some pupils are strikingly polite. Some are unkind to others but staff deal with this. Around a quarter of pupils have been at the school for less than 12 months. Many staff are very new too. These staff are still building relationships with pupils. This has led to some unsettled behaviour. Once pupils get used to school life, they enjoy lessons. They love learning outside of the classroom. They enjoy the many exciting visits they go on, including a fantastic trip to the Hebrides. Most parents and carers are delighted with the school. Many believe the school has transformed their child’s life.