S04E01: The school's evacuated after a gun scare

Waterloo Road opens its doors for a new term tonight and, following the fire that nearly destroyed the school, head teacher Rachel Mason is more determined than ever to get the school back on track.

Rachel's bold new initiatives include the implementation of a full extended services programme for the community and a no exclusion policy for pupils – this is the year Waterloo Road serves everyone.

However, her commitment is immediately put to the test when the Kelly "family from hell" turn up. Unknown to the school, 15-year-old Earl Kelly is a borderline psychopath and has a gun that he menacingly shows off to terrified pupils Paul and Bolton.

Elsewhere, fit new PE teacher Rob Cleaver is getting Steph, Jasmine and Matt in a lather, whilst Grantly is sporting a new look with an ill-fitting toupee.

Rachel, meanwhile, is in the process of interviewing for the head of Extended Services, and thinks Melissa Ryan is perfect for the job. Deputy head Eddie, however, is surprised with her choice, but what he doesn't know is that Melissa is Rachel's sister.

Rachel finds an anonymous note under her door informing her that there is a gun on the school premises. An evacuation is ordered and the police are called. Earl cons his little brother, Denzil, into taking the gun and Denzil is left alone, confused and scared. When a terrified Denzil comes face to face with Donte, he accidentally pulls the trigger and panic descends on the school.

Later, when having a well-earned drink with the staff, Rachel has to face Eddie's questions about the two of them and their future. Rachel, however, is adamant that there is no "them".

Finally, Tom and Davina are in for a nasty shock when they arrive home and realise that their new neighbours are none other than the Kelly family.