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What is in store for series for?

Well, the first episode is a 90-minute special and quite literally starts with a bang! Then we see the arrival of a new family at the school which stretches and challenges all of our characters in different ways. We also see Rachel return more determined than ever to make this work.

Has it been good having 20 episodes this series?

Yes, it's good because we can develop storylines and relationships in a more realistic slow burn way. It also gives us a chance to give every character their own story.

Will we see any differences in this series compared to series three?

The biggest difference is the arrival of the new family, the Kellys. They manage to have a far reaching influence across the school and there isn’t anyone who escapes the impact they make. We still concentrate on old favourites though and Rachel and Eddie are very much at the centre of things.

Waterloo Road is embracing "inclusion" at the school – what does this mean?

This is Rachel's initiative after series three. She wants the school to welcome both kids and adults alike – no one will be turned away. Of course this brings with it many social issues and the school is nearly brought to its knees by episode eight and Rachel is left questioning her own logic.

Do you think Waterloo Road is realistic?

Yes and no! Yes – because it does reflect the issues and attitudes in an ordinary comprehensive school. No – because we are dealing with drama and so we distil events down and show a slice of life at a school and some of it's quite heightened.

What is your favourite storyline this series? Why do you think it works?

I think the Kelly family arrival is really good. It is well storylined and has a real feel of the clock ticking about the character of Earl. You just know it won't end well – and it doesn't! Also, the will they, won't they of Eddie and Rachel – it's very gripping.

What are you most proud of?

Probably the consistency of the scripts and stories and quality of the series has been good. Also, the 90-minute special is pretty good!

Has Waterloo Road reminded you of your own school days?

Definitely! I went to a comprehensive school and there was a real cross-section of society there. I think my school was similar in that there were some bad kids and bad teachers and it certainly wasn't posh!