Lime Tree Primary Academy shortlisted for two TES Awards 2024

The best schools and teachers across the country have been shortlisted in this year’s TES Schools Awards. The TES Schools Awards, which have been dubbed the ‘Oscars of education’, is a prestigious awards programme which celebrates the best of education across the UK. It has now been revealed that Lime Tree Primary Academy has been shortlisted in the categories of ‘Pupil Mental Health Initiative of the Year’ and ‘Staff Wellbeing School of the Year’. This follows the school’s 2023 win for ‘Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Setting of the Year’ and its 2022 award for ‘SEND in a Mainstream Setting’.

Clare Larkin, Principal at Lime Tree Primary Academy, which is part of Bright Futures Educational Trust, commented: “We are delighted to again be recognised with two nominations by TES for these coveted awards. Wellbeing permeates through everything we do at Lime Tree, it is a deeply embedded key part of our culture. Our vision is that every child is ready to learn and is happy and successful. Our commitment to mental health and wellbeing has been part of our culture for many years.

“A vital aspect of our outstanding provision is the fact that we never rest, we are continually researching the best current practice and how we can adapt and improve, led by the work of our School Wellbeing team. Our staff are extremely committed; the care and attention we show our staff reflects the love and care they show our pupils; there is a genuine care which is visible to all.”

Feedback from staff and the wide range of visitors to Lime Tree, consistently remarks on the warm, welcoming atmosphere, the high expectations, the happy and supportive staff, and the strong team ethos that is felt across the whole school. This is reflected in the many plaudits the school has received over the years.

Just one example of Lime Tree’s commitment to wellbeing is evidenced through its creation of two forest school areas and a farm on site, the positive impact of which cannot be underestimated – not only for pupils and staff but also for the whole school community. Pupils are also regularly taken on visits to experience the local woods and forest areas. With residentials in school and in the local community e.g., canoeing on the canal, staying overnight at Dunham Massey, climbing, and abseiling, which are also part of the offer.

The TES Schools Awards recognise the very best teachers and schools from UK state and independent schools, across early years settings, primary and secondary. The shortlist was compiled by a panel of judges, including school leaders and experts. The schools and teachers they chose showcase the best of education across the sector within 21 award categories, covering all areas of school education.

Jon Severs, Editor of TES Magazine, said: “Congratulations to all the shortlisted entries – the standard was so high this year despite the challenges schools face. It is critical we celebrate excellence and share it widely so we can ensure that the fantastic work happening in education is properly recognised.”

Winners will be announced on 21 June at a glittering gala awards night at the Grosvenor Hotel, Park Lane, in London. For more information, visit https://www.tes.com/en-gb/schools-awards.