Sedgefield Community College is not just a community in name only. Pupils and staff feel that this is a place where they are safe, happy and valued. Pupils trust that staff have their best interests at heart. This is an environment where pupils are being moulded to be positive citizens and to achieve their very best. Staff are invested in the success of pupils. Pupils’ successes are important to the school community. In reception, there are pictures celebrating the achievements of pupils who have recently left the school. Equally, leaders continue to offer careers guidance to pupils who have left if their plans change. Parents praise the caring nature of the school and the way it builds confidence and resilience. Pupils’ behaviour around school is impeccable. Pupils treat each other with courtesy and respect. They act maturely and are polite to visitors. The atmosphere around school is calm yet purposeful. Pupils learn in central, open classrooms and are focused and engaged. Leaders have high expectations for pupils’ behaviour and academic success. Pupils rise to meet these. Pupils are taught clear messages about respecting diversity, which lays the foundation for a culture where bullying is not tolerated. Pupils are clear about how they could report any concerns and agree that bullying is tackled decisively by staff. Older pupils explain that education empowers them to challenge bullying in all its forms.