Paradise Lost (S08E10)
As the term concludes, the mood is far from cheerful. Christine, drowning her sorrows in alcohol, blames work stress and openly reveals her struggles to Connor. Meanwhile, Connor is secretly scheming with Imogen to escape together. Their plans to settle into the vacant schoolhouse over the break are jeopardized when Christine overhears Scout and Phoenix chatting. In response to Waterloo Road's dismal academic performance, Lorraine proposes tough measures, suggesting that underperforming students like Phoenix should be let go. Michael is appalled and pleads with her to think it over. Discovering that Tariq has made the national Para-canoe team, Michael sees a glimmer of hope for the school’s troubled students. When Chalky figures out that Kevin is intentionally downplaying his academic skills, they bond unexpectedly, leading Kevin to propose that Chalky become his foster parent. However, during Tariq’s farewell party, things take a dangerous turn. Frustrated with his mother's meddling, Connor makes