Hollis Academy is an improving school. Senior leaders have raised expectations as to how well pupils can achieve. The staff work hard to provide a good quality of education. Leaders offer a range of pathways designed to meet the needs of pupils who have not been suited to mainstream education. Over time, most pupils improve their attendance and attitude because of the care they receive. Pupils are taught in small groups, so get lots of individual attention. Teachers expect them to concentrate and apply themselves. At times, some pupils struggle and there are occasional outbursts. There are always plenty of adults on hand to help pupils calm down. Pupils are always supervised carefully. The staff build strong and positive relationships with pupils. This helps many pupils to re-build their selfesteem. Some pupils cannot cope with full-time schooling, so receive home tuition or education at other providers for part of the week. A fifth of the timetable is dedicated to supporting pupils’ personal development. Pupils have opportunities each week to go off site and pursue their talents and interests. Opportunities such as kayaking help to build pupils’ social skills and character. Because of this, bullying rarely happens. If it does, the staff deal with it quickly.