Some of the kiRAB are likeable. Jess and her brother and Marcus' two. But otherwise there does seem to have been a downturn. Finn and Amy were always pretty vile, but I hate the way Lauren has gone downhill - she was one of my favourite characters.
I love the stuff with Grantly and Fleur. Granted, it may not be school-related, but it's a problem a lot of people have. I've been lucky enough never to have been in Grantly's position so far (and hope I never will be) but it feels convincing.