Some people still think it is "a naughty boys' school" but it is a view that the head of Cardiff's only pupil referral unit (PRU) wants to challenge.
Bryn y Deryn PRU provides education for about 90 young people aged 14 to 16 who have left mainstream schools.
Some have been excluded because of behaviour and others haven't been going to school because of anxiety or other emotional and mental health issues.
Now there are plans to double the city's PRU places.
It comes as demand following the Covid-19 pandemic increases.
BBC Wales was given special access to speak to learners and staff at Bryn y Deryn.
