‘Building strong relationships with children and families’ and ‘empowering children to succeed’ are among the key ambitions of the new Principal of a North Somerset special school.
Natalie Sweet is taking over the leadership of Lime Hills Academy, a specialist school for students with social, emotional and mental health needs.
Lime Hills currently operates from two sites in Weston-super-Mare and Nailsea but is building its first bespoke site in Langford.
The school will move into its new campus under the leadership of Natalie Sweet, after she took over leadership for the school from previous Principal Lis Jolley, who has moved to an Executive Principal role within the school’s parent trust, the Cabot Learning Federation.
Natalie – who began her teaching career in Bristol, but has worked in North Somerset since 2004, and at Lime Hills since 2024 – says she is ‘proud’ to work at Lime Hills, and looks forward to continuing her commitment ‘to inclusive and impactful education’.
Natalie Sweet, new Principal at Lime Hills Academy, said:
“Throughout my career, I have been dedicated to championing the needs of pupils who experience disadvantage, ensuring they receive the support and opportunities they deserve to thrive.
“Having spent a year at Lime Hills, I’ve come to deeply appreciate the school’s strong sense of community, the remarkable resilience of our pupils, and the genuine sense of belonging shared by all. It is a truly special place to work.
“One of the most rewarding aspects of our school is the opportunity to shape a personalised curriculum that meets the needs of every child. I feel incredibly privileged to take on the role of Principal, working alongside a dedicated and talented team. 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.
“This is an incredibly exciting time to take on the role. Following a successful Ofsted inspection, a period of sustained growth, and with the move to our purpose-built site on the horizon, we are perfectly positioned to shape the next chapter of the school’s journey.
“We have a unique opportunity to work together – staff, families, and the wider community – to build a school that truly meets the needs of every child.”
Steve Taylor, Chief Executive Officer of the Cabot Learning Federation, said:
“I am delighted that Natalie will be taking on the leadership of the talented and dedicated team at Lime Hills – it’s great news for the children and the community. I’m looking forward to the school continuing to go from strength to strength in the exciting years ahead.”
