Lime Academy Forest Approach, located in Harold Hill, Romford, Essex, has been recognized for its overall effectiveness as good following an inspection conducted on May 24 and 25, 2023. The school provides a nurturing environment that supports pupils in their learning and personal development. Staff collaborate to enhance pupils' physical, academic, social, and life skills through a carefully designed curriculum. Each pupil is given ambitious, bespoke targets, and leaders ensure that the curriculum is delivered effectively, enabling pupils to meet their goals.
The school encourages pupils to take on responsibilities, such as participating in the student council, and offers a variety of enrichment activities from early years through to sixth form. Recent initiatives include visits from a theatre company, allowing pupils to engage in creative activities like song writing. A new behavior policy has been implemented, with staff receiving extensive training to ensure consistent application across the school. As a result, pupils understand and adhere to the established rules and routines, contributing to a calm and positive atmosphere.
Communication between leaders, teachers, and parents is regular and effective, with opportunities for parents to engage in school activities, such as celebration assemblies. This involvement fosters a sense of community and allows pupils to showcase their achievements to their families.
The curriculum is ambitious and tailored to meet the diverse needs of all pupils, including those with complex needs. Each subject is carefully planned to support the development of communication skills and prepare pupils for adulthood. However, some teachers may lack sufficient subject knowledge in certain areas, which can hinder the consistent implementation of the curriculum. Leaders are actively addressing this by providing professional development opportunities to enhance staff expertise.
Pupils are taught to build their knowledge incrementally, with specific pathways designed for those with the most complex needs. This structured approach ensures that pupils develop essential communication and language skills. Teachers assess pupils' needs and starting points, allowing for the breakdown of educational goals into manageable steps. Collaboration among teachers, therapists, and parents is crucial in supporting pupils to achieve these goals.
Reading is a priority at the school, with daily reading sessions and carefully selected books that cater to pupils' interests. The phonics program is delivered systematically, enabling pupils to decode words effectively. Regular assessments ensure that the phonics instruction meets pupils' needs, and additional support is provided when necessary.
From their first day, pupils are taught appropriate behavior, with consistent high standards maintained by all staff. The curriculum includes strategies to help pupils manage overwhelming situations, fostering resilience and a positive attitude towards learning. Real-life experiences, such as shopping trips and using public transport, are integrated into the curriculum to enhance practical skills.
Careers education is provided throughout a pupil's time at the school, equipping them with information about future opportunities. The personal, social, and health education program covers essential topics, including healthy relationships and British values, guided by the school's core values of respect, equity, and self-worth.
The school prioritizes staff well-being, which is appreciated by the staff. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with leaders aware of the individual needs of pupils. Staff receive regular training to implement safeguarding policies consistently, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported. Overall, Lime Academy Forest Approach demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and a supportive environment for all its pupils.
