When Sheba Hart (Cate Blanchett) arrives at St. George's School in London, she catches the eye of another teacher, Barbara Covett (Judi Dench). The two women become friends but their relationship is threatened when Sheba begins a dangerous affair. The ensuing battle for control reaches shocking and outrageous levels, as both women - intelligent, acerbic and determined to win - are left with nothing to fight for but survival.
Follows pottery teacher Cate Blanchett as she enters into an affair with one of her students, causing upheaval in both her personal and professional life.