Lime Academy Orton, located in Peterborough, is a special academy that caters to pupils with severe to profound learning needs, many of whom also require significant therapeutic support. The school operates under the Lime Trust and is led by headteacher Anthony Skipworth. The recent inspection conducted on September 24 and 25, 2024, resulted in a positive evaluation across all key areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, early years provision, and sixth-form provision, all rated as good.
The school provides a tailored curriculum that begins in the early years, focusing on communication and interaction skills essential for pupils to engage with the world. This curriculum is designed to foster independence and is well-structured, with pathways that meet the diverse needs of the students. The learning environment is nurturing, allowing pupils to feel confident and happy, which contributes to their overall enjoyment of school. The school emphasizes the importance of teaching pupils how to maintain safety and health in their daily lives, incorporating practical skills such as road safety and healthy eating into their learning experiences.
Pupils at Lime Academy Orton are encouraged to celebrate their achievements and support one another, fostering a strong sense of community. In the sixth form, students express their aspirations enthusiastically, indicating a positive outlook for their future. The school has undergone significant changes since joining the Lime Trust, including improvements in leadership and curriculum design. Staff are dedicated to delivering effective learning activities and regularly assess pupils' progress to inform future learning steps.
Despite the overall positive evaluation, the inspection identified areas for improvement, particularly within the 'inspire' curriculum. Some aspects of this curriculum lack clarity regarding the specific knowledge and vocabulary that pupils need to learn, which can lead to gaps in retention and understanding. The school is encouraged to enhance the precision of its curriculum to ensure that all pupils can achieve their potential.
Reading is a significant component of the curriculum, and pupils enjoy engaging with stories read by staff in captivating ways. The early years program effectively introduces children to literature through sensory experiences, helping them grasp key story elements. As pupils progress, they receive instruction in phonics and reading strategies, enabling many to decode texts and comprehend their content.
The school fosters a respectful and trusting atmosphere, where strong relationships between staff and pupils are evident. Staff systematically teach appropriate social behaviors and learning habits, contributing to a calm and focused classroom environment. Attendance is generally high, as pupils enjoy their time at school, and the school provides support for families facing challenges related to attendance.
Lime Academy Orton also offers a well-developed enrichment program that caters to pupils' interests and needs, providing opportunities for personal development through bespoke trips and activities. The school prepares pupils for adult life by teaching essential life skills, such as laundry and cooking, and facilitating work experience opportunities. The trust overseeing the school has established effective governance, ensuring that school leaders are supported and held accountable for delivering quality education.
Parents and staff express high levels of satisfaction with the school, appreciating the care and support provided to pupils and families. The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students. Overall, Lime Academy Orton demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education tailored to the unique needs of its pupils, while also recognizing areas for further development to enhance the learning experience.
