Head Teacher's Welcome

It is my pleasure and privilege to welcome you to The Orchard School, a specialist provision for pupils aged between 4 and 11 years of age.

We pride ourselves on being a vibrant, caring and a considerate school. We aim for every child to excel in every aspect of their development and school life. Every child is an individual and is treated with dignity and respect.

The Orchard School is a Maintained Special School for children with severe, profound, and complex learning difficulties and medical needs. We have a purpose-built premises with excellent facilities which include a music and drama studio, white and dark room studios, soft playroom, sensory room, swimming and hydrotherapy pools and defined outdoor play areas for differing ages and abilities.

Multi-agency teamwork is an essential and highly valued aspect of the school. Along with teaching and classroom support staff, the school is supported by a multi-agency team of nursing, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy colleagues, and a teacher of the visually impaired.

We endeavour to provide the very best learning opportunities for all. Our bespoke curriculum is underpinned by the National Curriculum and every child has a personalised learning journey to enable them to achieve their best potential.

Our aim is to provide the highest quality education for all in a caring, supportive, inclusive and vibrant learning environment, within and beyond the classroom. As a school we value children as individuals and celebrate both academic and social achievements. We believe in the strong connection between home and school and will work closely with parents and carers to maximise the opportunities on offer for all of our pupils.

Our team of highly trained, enthusiastic staff provide each child with an exciting, individualised learning programme which engages, motivates and fosters a love of learning. Children are stimulated to become the best they can be; academically and personally. We believe it is the responsibility of all staff to develop the basic skills of all children.

We hope that you enjoy browsing our school’s website and that it gives you an insight into all that we do at The Orchard School. Please do not hesitate to contact us if we can help you in any other way. You are more than welcome to visit us, see our school at first hand and meet our friendly children and staff.

I am extremely proud to be the Head Teacher at The Orchard School and extend a warm welcome whether you are an existing parent or considering us as a partner in your child’s future.

Liz Hopewell
Head Teacher