Staff build warm, good humoured relationships with pupils and treat them with respect. Many pupils have had a difficult and unsettled time in the education system before joining the school. They often arrive with negative views of learning and poor self-esteem as a result. However, pupils want to learn and they settle into school quickly. They make friends and steadily grow in confidence and self-esteem. High expectations and clear routines are introduced from the start. These help pupils to feel secure. During the inspection, for example, some of the youngest children, who have just started school, happily sat together in a circle, watching their teacher, and joining in with the actions to songs with great excitement. However, pupils could be helped to do even better academically. Pupils play energetically but sensibly during break times. They look out for each other and take care of their friends. During the inspection, for example, a pupil suggested that someone who had fallen over ‘sit here and rest for a while’. Leaders follow up any concerns about bullying thoroughly. The school’s breakfast club provides a calm and relaxed start to the school day. Pupils happily choose activities from a range of good quality books and toys, chatting with friends as they enjoy toast and cereal.