As millions of viewers prepare to take another trip inside the gates of Frederick Bremer headteacher Jenny Smith has spoken of a new found sense of pride in the air at the Walthamstow secondary school.

Tonight, the sixth episode of ‘Educating the East End’ will air on Channel 4.

The fly on the wall documentary runs for eight weeks and has so far been a big success with around two million people tuning in for every episode.

The series has looked into the lives of pupils and teachers discussing topics such as popularity, behaviour, confidence and support.

Episode one which followed new English teacher Mr Bispham who was struggling with dealing with teens was an instant success.

Viewers were also offered a glimpse into the life of 14-year-old pupil Acacia who was coming to terms with her mum’s illness whilst trying to study.

Head Jenny Smith said the pupils, staff and parents have all been feeling a sense of pride.

“Parents have told me how much they love watching and the staff are really enjoying it,” she added.

“The difference in the kids has been a pleasure to see, they’ve all been walking a bit taller.

“They have so much more respect for us and what we do and for each other. They didn’t realise some of the emotional upset that other pupils were going through.

“The most difficult time was the first episode, the first time we were thrust into the spotlight. But the girls got so much positive feedback, it really boosted their confidence.”

Ms Smith who leads the school with 900 pupils has described some of the biggest shocks as how her voice sounds on TV and just how positive people have been since the first episode.

The school which has a major focus on pastoral support allowed the cameras to film the work of non-teaching staff like Hazel who was kicked out of school as a teen but has returned to help others get it right.

“The reaction that staff members like Hazel have got has been phenomenal. I’ve had heads calling and asking if they can go and work for them,” Ms Smith added.

“There has been so little negative stuff that it has actually surprised me.

“Everybody has a view on education and nobody can agree on what schools should be for. I have had some negative comments. Some people have said I’m not strong enough when pupils misbehave or on the other hand they say I haven’t done enough for a child before excluding them.

“Nobody knows the full story. There is a lot that goes on that isn’t in the show and I have to make a decision based on what is good for all of the pupils here.”

Ms Smith also confirmed that Mr Bispham had another class inspection last week, but could not reveal whether or not it was “Good, across the board”.