It is the first day back at school and Michael's recuperation is cut short when the school is infiltrated by a local gang. Tariq's efforts to turn over a new leaf are challenged by the arrival of new year 13 pupil Mason. Elsewhere, the net closes in on Linda when Chalky exposes her lies.

While Tom is overseeing the selection process for a new head of English, his relationship with Josh is plunged into crisis by Josh's spiralling drug problem. Elsewhere, Grantly is at a loss when he mislays a large sum of money meant for Fleur's nursing home fees, and it is touch and go for Matt's baby daughter, Martha.