It's the start of a new term at Ackley Bridge, and lives and cultures are still colliding at this high school that integrated a community of white and Pakistani residents. Smart student Nasreen (Amy-Leigh Hickman, EastEnders) tries to hide her sexuality behind a sham engagement, while her best friend, Missy (Poppy Lee Friar, Mr Selfridge), must shoulder the burdens of her drug-addict mother. Free-spirited English teacher Emma (Liz White, Life on Mars) embarks on an affair with a married staff member, and headmistress Mandy (Jo Joyner, EastEnders) introduces a strict academic regime that infuriates staff and students alike.