New Principal Natalie Sweet Leads Lime Hills Academy into Future

A new chapter begins at Lime Hills Academy in North Somerset as Natalie Sweet officially takes on the role of Principal. She aims to cultivate a strong sense of belonging and provide tailored support for students with social, emotional, and mental health needs (SEMH). Sweet’s appointment follows the transition of former Principal Lis Jolley into an Executive Principal position within the Cabot Learning Federation, which oversees the school.

Lime Hills Academy, currently operating campuses in Weston-super-Mare and Nailsea, is set to relocate to its first purpose-built facility in Langford. Sweet, who began her teaching career in Bristol and has served in North Somerset since 2004, expressed her pride in joining the Lime Hills community. “Throughout my career, I have been dedicated to championing the needs of pupils who experience disadvantage,” she stated. “It is a truly special place to work.”

In her new role, Sweet recognizes the importance of a personalized curriculum that caters to individual student needs. “I feel incredibly privileged to take on the role of Principal,” she noted. “Our shared goal is to create an environment where all pupils feel supported, empowered, and inspired to achieve success and grow both academically and personally.”

The timing of Sweet’s leadership coincides with a period of positive momentum for the school. Following a successful Ofsted inspection, Lime Hills is poised for growth as it prepares for its move to the new site. Sweet emphasized the collaborative efforts required to build a school that meets the diverse needs of its students, stating, “We have a unique opportunity to work together—staff, families, and the wider community.”

The Cabot Learning Federation CEO, Steve Taylor, welcomed Sweet’s appointment, highlighting the benefits it brings to both the students and the community. “I am delighted that Natalie will be taking on the leadership of the talented and dedicated team at Lime Hills,” he remarked. “I’m looking forward to the school continuing to go from strength to strength in the exciting years ahead.”

Lime Hills Academy opened in September 2022 as part of the Cabot Learning Federation. It currently holds a “Good” rating in all areas from Ofsted and serves students with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) where SEMH is the primary need. The school emphasizes care, strong relationships, and high expectations to help students thrive.

As Sweet steps into her new role, the outlook for Lime Hills Academy appears promising, with a dedicated team and a clear vision to support vulnerable students in their educational journeys.