Starting at this school marks a positive turning point in the lives of pupils. Prior to attending Park School, many pupils have not been in full-time education for some time. Staff’s empathy, patience and understanding enables pupils to feel valued and safe. Relationships are warm and nurturing. This helps pupils to grow in confidence and develop greater self-esteem. Over time, pupils re-engage with learning and see a more positive future ahead of them. The school is a welcoming environment, which fosters respect and courtesy. Staff care deeply about pupils’ well-being. They have high ambition and aspire for every pupil to thrive. From low starting points, pupils achieve well, academically and socially. They enjoy school and are positive about their learning. Friday enrichment afternoons are a ‘big hit’ with pupils, particularly ‘bake-off’ and the various clubs on offer. Most of the time, pupils behave well. Staff are skilled at pre-empting and deescalating any rising tensions. They support pupils kindly and help them to move on as quickly as possible from any upsets. Pupils talk candidly about how the school has helped them to overcome difficulties and manage their emotions. One family summed this up, commenting that for their son the school has been ‘life-changing’.