Lime Academy Ravensbourne is a good school located in Harold Hill, Romford, Essex. The headteacher, Andy Smith, leads the school, which is part of the Lime Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Kirsten Jowett and a board of trustees chaired by Christopher Cole. The school serves pupils aged 3 to 19 with a range of special educational needs and disabilities, including profound and multiple learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, and specific learning disorders.
During the inspection on June 11 and 12, 2024, it was noted that pupils are enthusiastic about attending school, benefiting from a stimulating environment tailored to their individual needs. The staff fosters warm and professional relationships with pupils, ensuring they feel cared for and supported. The school maintains a calm and orderly atmosphere, allowing pupils to thrive. When behavioral challenges arise, staff effectively implement strategies to manage these situations. Parental involvement is strong, with parents participating in activities such as coffee mornings to learn about the school's approach to occupational therapy. Parents express high levels of satisfaction, noting their children's progress in a safe and happy environment.
The school emphasizes independence, with all staff holding high expectations for pupils. Sixth-form students engage in activities that prepare them for adult life, including visits to local shops and outings to parks. Leaders encourage pupil participation in school decisions, allowing them to contribute to aspects such as food choices and school events.
Lime Academy Ravensbourne offers a broad curriculum that is personalized to meet the needs of each pupil. Pupils follow a curriculum pathway that allows for progression to more advanced levels when ready. Older pupils complete AQA unit awards annually, celebrating their achievements. However, in some subjects, the curriculum lacks detailed breakdowns into smaller learning steps, which can hinder progress toward short- and long-term goals.
Staff demonstrate a strong understanding of the curriculum and receive valuable training. Teachers and teaching assistants collaborate to create engaging activities that cater to pupils' interests. The school prioritizes communication development, utilizing visual timetables and various communication methods, including Makaton and assisted technology, to support pupils in expressing their preferences.
Ongoing observations enable staff to assess pupil progress and adapt the curriculum as needed. Leaders are actively working to improve attendance rates, collaborating with parents to address barriers. While some progress has been made, attendance figures remain an area for improvement.
Pupils are well-prepared for adulthood, learning to express their preferences and engage in practical activities such as cooking and caring for therapy dogs. The trust's careers advisor facilitates interactions with employers, and pupils participate in work experience placements and community outings.
The school has made strides in engaging with other special schools within the trust and the local authority, sharing expertise to refine practices. Trustees and the local governing council provide effective support and challenge to school leaders. Staff demonstrate high levels of commitment to their roles and the well-being of pupils and families.
The safeguarding arrangements at Lime Academy Ravensbourne are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is committed to continuous improvement, focusing on enhancing curricular clarity and addressing attendance issues to further support pupil success. Overall, Lime Academy Ravensbourne continues to provide a good educational experience for its pupils, fostering their growth and development in a supportive community.
