Lime Academy Orton

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 24 September 2024

At Lime Academy Orton, pupils have severe to profound learning needs. Many also have physical needs that require substantial therapeutic support. Starting in the early years, pupils learn a curriculum that helps them to communicate with others and interact with the world effectively, and this tailored curriculum continues as they progress through the school. Pupils also develop independence. Within the school's caring environment, pupils are confident and happy. They delight in learning and value their experiences at school. Pupils learn the knowledge and skills they need to take positive next steps in life after leaving school. They learn how to keep themselves safe and healthy at home and in the local community. On school trips, pupils learn important skills such as crossing roads safely. While dining together during lunchtime, pupils learn how to make healthy choices when eating. The many cultural activities at the school, such as the celebrations of religious festivals in assembly, help pupils gain insight about the world. Pupils thrive within the 'can-do' ethos at school. They are proud of their achievements. They celebrate each other's success and appreciate the recognition they receive for good work. In the sixth form, students speak enthusiastically and fluently about their aspirations in life.

What the school should improve

• Some areas of the school's curriculum do not clarify what pupils must know with sufficient precision. As a result, teachers are not certain what knowledge they should emphasise and review with pupils, including key vocabulary. This leads to pupils not remembering what they should. The school needs to specify in all areas of the curriculum the exact knowledge that pupils must learn and remember over time to support all pupils to achieve well.

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