Lime Tree Primary School, located in Surbiton, Kingston upon Thames, underwent an inspection on February 28 and March 1, 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, reflecting significant improvements since the previous inspection, which had rated it as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good.
Pupils at Lime Tree Primary School are generally happy and engaged in their learning. They appreciate the various activities organized by school leaders, such as sports events specifically designed for girls. The school promotes a culture of responsibility, with pupils taking on roles such as school counselors and mental health ambassadors. The inclusive environment fosters respect for diversity, with lessons on equality and the importance of understanding differences among individuals. The school addresses bullying effectively, ensuring that incidents are dealt with promptly and appropriately.
The relationships between leaders and pupils are nurturing, creating a safe atmosphere where students feel comfortable discussing their concerns. Leaders have high expectations for all pupils and have carefully designed the curriculum to support effective learning across subjects. Most pupils achieve well, demonstrating a solid understanding of the material taught.
Reading is prioritized at Lime Tree Primary School, with daily opportunities for pupils to engage with texts. Phonics instruction begins in the early years, and leaders monitor pupils' progress closely, providing additional support for those who struggle. This approach has proven effective in enhancing pupils' reading fluency and confidence.
The school also provides effective support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Teachers receive training to identify and assist these pupils early on, ensuring they can learn alongside their peers. The curriculum aligns with national standards, and leaders have thoughtfully sequenced the knowledge that pupils need to acquire from early years through Year 6. Regular opportunities for revisiting prior learning help pupils connect new concepts with what they have previously learned.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some aspects of the curriculum are not consistently implemented, leading to gaps in pupils' knowledge. Leaders must ensure that the planned curriculum is delivered effectively across all subjects. Additionally, while behavior expectations are clear and generally upheld, there are instances where low-level disruptions occur, which can impact learning.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including cookery, coding, and karate, which contribute to pupils' personal development. Workshops and guest speakers address important topics such as mental health, further enriching the educational experience. The governing body plays a supportive role, providing appropriate challenge to school leaders and ensuring that statutory responsibilities are met.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize signs that a pupil may need help. Leaders act swiftly on concerns and collaborate with external agencies when necessary. Pupils are educated on maintaining safe relationships and reporting any issues they encounter.
In summary, Lime Tree Primary School has made commendable progress since its last inspection, achieving a good rating across various aspects of school life. The commitment to fostering a positive learning environment, prioritizing reading, and supporting all pupils, including those with special educational needs, reflects the school's dedication to providing quality education. However, attention to the consistent implementation of the curriculum and addressing behavior management will further enhance the school's effectiveness.
