Looking Forward to - 2025/2026 -
Message from the Head
“
I
am so excited to share with you the details of what
promises to be
a truly inspiring and enriching 2025/2026 academic year at Orchard House School.
This is a glimpse into the many highlights and exciting developments we have planned across all areas of school life from sports and performing arts to curriculum updates, facilities improvements, and the everyday magic that happens within our classrooms. We are committed to providing an educational experience that not only meets the highest standards but also reflects the joy, curiosity, and individuality of every child
Mrs Henrietta Adams Head
At Orchard House, we believe in working in partnership with our families. We are always grateful for the feedback we receive, it plays an important role in helping us refine and enhance what we do As we look ahead, we are proud to be implementing a number of initiatives that reflect our shared aspirations and support our aim of providing an education that is dynamic, relevant, and deeply rooted in the values that matter. Many of the initiatives you will read about in this document reflect our ongoing commitment to listen, adapt, and lead with clarity and care in an ever-evolving world.
We are confident that 2025/2026 will be another exceptional year Our focus remains on nurturing curious, capable, and kind young people who are prepared not only to succeed academically, but also to thrive in the wider world.
As always, we are excited to continue this journey with you, and to offer a school experience that is both ambitious and full of joy.
Kind regards,
Mrs Henrietta Adams Head
Mrs Adams’ Tea Party
Curriculum
About our Curriculum
Mrs Crystal Waldmeyer Deputy Head Academic
As we look ahead to the 2025/2026 academic year, I am delighted to share with you the exciting next chapter in the evolution of our curriculum: The Learning Orchard.
Over the past year, The Learning Orchard has continuedtoflourish,inspiringpupilsacrossthe school to think deeply, explore widely, and develop the skills and values they need to thrive in an ever-changing world We are incredibly proud that our curriculum has been shortlisted for the TES Schools Award for Primary Curriculum Leader of the Year, a reflection of the ambition, creativity and commitment that underpin every element of our teaching and learning.
Thisyear,wearebuildingonthatsuccesswitha number of new developments that aim to take our curriculum to even greater heights. We are introducing thoughtful refinements to our homework approach, ensuring it supports learning in a meaningful, balanced and ageappropriate way We are expanding specialist teaching, giving children the opportunity to benefit from subject experts across an even wider range of disciplines And perhaps most excitingly, we are embarking on a new journey as a High Performance Learning (HPL) school, joining a global community of educators committed to unlocking the potential of every child.
These initiatives are outlined in the pages that follow Each one is designed to nurture the whole child, underpinning the importance of a rounded education, where academic achievement is balanced with creativity, character,andwellbeing
Thiscommitmenthasonceagainbeenreflected in the outcomes of our future schools process this year We are proud to celebrate over 50 scholarships awarded across academics, allround achievement, sport, chess, art, music, dramaandperformingartswhichisatestament to the strength of our curriculum and the breadthoftalentamongourpupils.
As we continue to refine and develop The Learning Orchard, our aim is to ensure every child is empowered to grow their potential, nurturing the skills, attitudes and values that will help them thrive, both now and in the future. With innovation, ambition and care at theheartofallwedo,weareconfidentthatthe year ahead will be one of meaningful growth andrichdiscoveryforeverylearner.
Warmregards,
CrystalWaldmeyer DeputyHead(Academic)
As part of our commitment to meaningful, balanced learning beyond the classroom, we are introducing a refreshed approach to homework for the 2025/2026 academic year In response to recent research on the effects of screen time on concentration and pupil wellbeing, our new model reduces reliance on digital platforms and places greater emphasis on handwritten tasks, deep thinking, and meaningful, screen-free experiences
We are proud to launch new Learning Orchard homework materials designed to deepen understanding across the curriculum, alongside creative knowledge projects and enrichment tasks that spark curiosity and promote independent thinking At the heart of our approach is reading: our new Reading Scholars Programme will inspire a genuine love of literature, broaden pupils’ horizons, and reward thoughtful reading habits with a sense of pride and achievement.
These changes reflect our belief that homework should be purposeful, inspiring, and support each pupil’s growth as a confident, curious and self directed learner
Specialist Teaching Homework
Specialist teaching plays a vital role in inspiring a love of learning and helping every child discover their unique strengths
From Reception, pupils will benefit from specialist lessons in French, PE, Computing (new for 2025/2026), and Eurhythmics, a rare and enriching musical movement programme that we are proud to offer as one of the only schools in the UK
From Year 1 onwards, our curriculum expands to include specialist teaching in Music, Art, PE, Science, Computing, French, and Drama, ensuring pupils receive expert instruction across a broad and balanced curriculum In addition, children from Year 1 have the opportunity to take part in individual music tuition, allowing them to explore instruments in a focused and personalised way.
This strong foundation in specialist-led learning supports not only subject mastery but also creativity, confidence and a lifelong passion for discovery
High Performance Learning
We are delighted to share that from September 2025, Orchard House School will begin its phased journey towards becoming a High Performance Learning (HPL) school, a globally recognised framework that redefines what’s possible in education. Our full transition will take place in January 2026, and we are incredibly proud to be joining some of the leading schools in the country in adopting this ambitious, research-driven approach
High Performance Learning is built on a powerful belief: that high academic performance is achievable for every child, not just a select few. It challenges outdated notions of fixed ability and instead fosters a school culture rooted in the conviction that all pupils can reach exceptional outcomes given the right environment, encouragement, and guidance
At the heart of the HPL philosophy is the development of Advanced Cognitive Performance characteristics (ACPs) such as creativity, critical thinking, and analytical reasoning, alongside Values, Attitudes and Attributes (VAAs) like empathy, resilience, confidence, and a love of learning This dual focus ensures that children are not only stretched academically but also grow as self-aware, compassionate and future-ready individuals.
This is not just about reaching the top grades; it’s about helping every child unlock their full potential, wherever their talents may lie Whether a pupil’s strength is in mathematics, music, languages, science, sport, or the arts, HPL equips them with the tools and mindset to strive for excellence and embrace challenges with enthusiasm and confidence.
Our decision to adopt the HPL framework is a natural extension of the work we already do at Orchard House, delivering a rich, well-rounded education rooted in our values of excellence, honesty and kindness As we integrate HPL into our curriculum and
and teaching methods, we will be enhancing our ability to personalise learning, raise expectations, and support children to aim high and achieve more
We are proud to be joining other exceptional schools , such as St Edmund’s College, St George’s Windsor, and Tudor Hall, on this journey. Becoming a High Performance Learning school represents not just a programme, but a long-term commitment to ambition, inclusivity, and educational excellence It marks a new chapter for Orchard House, and one we are excited to share with you and your children.
We look forward to keeping you updated as this transformative journey unfolds and to seeing the incredible things our pupils will achieve as a result
School Life
Our Approach to the 11+
Miss Caroline O’Connor Head of 11+ and Transition
At Orchard House, 11+ preparation is an integral part of a much broader journey supporting not only academic success, but also confidence, resilience, and a joy for learning.
Our approach is rooted in the belief that children thrive when they are well-supported, well-prepared, and encouraged to see this process not as a test of identity, but as an opportunity to find the right next step for their uniquetalentsandaspirations.
We begin laying the foundations early From Form 3, pupils engage in regular reasoning lessons to develop the problem-solving and abstract thinking skills needed for 11+ assessments Across all year groups, our curriculum is designed to foster intellectual curiosity, collaboration, and critical thinking. Pupilsbenefitfromaknowledge-richeducation, integrated STEM experiences, a strong focus on oracy and philosophy, and a commitment to deep,meaningfullearning
In Form 5, our more formal preparation begins Pupils receive additional support in Maths and English from senior leaders, and a dedicated programme of comprehension, grammar, and reasoning lessons helps build the skills required for a range of entrance procedures From the spring term, weekly comprehension lessons introduce pupils to exam-style texts, helping them develop inference, vocabulary and analytical skills In the summer term, pupils are themmmm
supported with carefully planned revision packs.
Importantly, interview preparation is woven into our curriculum through philosophical questioning, current affairs discussions, and generalknowledgedevelopment.Ourfocuson oracy helps children become confident, thoughtful speakers, ready to express their ideas with clarity and enthusiasm during interviewsorassessmentdays.
We are committed to ensuring the 11+ process is as calm and positive as possible. We actively encourage families to consider the full picture: not just academic fit, but school ethos, wellbeing provision, and the opportunities for children to flourish. Throughout Form 6, pupils continue to receive personalised support both academically and pastorally, as they approach exams, interviews, and scholarship assessments withgrowingmaturityandself-belief
Our goal is not simply to prepare pupils for an exam,buttoequipthemforthefuture: confident, capable, and ready to thrive at the seniorschoolthatsuitsthembest
Warmregards, CarolineO’Connor Headof11+andTransition
Assemblies
Every Friday at Orchard House School, Reception to Year 6 will come together for our much-loved whole-school assembly, a weekly highlight that brings energy, connection and celebration to the end of each week
These assemblies will be a joyful mix of experiences, showcasing the very best of school life. Pupils will regularly enjoy live musical performances from their classmates, celebrating individual and group achievements, and updating house points, sparking friendly competition and team spirit We will also hand out our Star of the Week badges to each class, recognising children for their hard work and good behaviour.
We also look forward to welcoming a wide range of guest speakers and visitors throughout the year, bringing fresh perspectives, inspiring stories, and new ideas into the heart of our school Our assemblies will be an opportunity to reflect on school-wide events, such as a quick science demonstration during Science Week or recognising pupils who go above and beyond.
More than just a gathering, our Friday assemblies will continue to be an important tradition that helps build confidence, foster community, and reinforce the values that shape life at Orchard House excellence, honesty and kindness.
We are also excited to introduce dedicated music assemblies next year, where children will come together to sing as one Each week, KS1 will gather to rehearse and enjoy songs from our newly developed OHS Song Book, building confidence, musicality, and a shared love of singing. KS2 will will do the same, creating a joyful opportunity to come together as a key stage and celebrate music through collective voice
School Council Initiatives
OurSchoolCouncilhasbeenincrediblyactivethisyear, workinghardtoensurethatpupils'voicesareheardand valuedacrosstheschoolLedbyMsZackeyandMrDe Blasio,thecouncilhashelpedbringseveralfantasticpupilledideastolife,twoofwhichwe’reproudtosharebelow
ToiletUpgrades
Oneofthekeyconcernsraisedbythechildrenwasthe experienceofusingtheschooltoiletsInresponse,wehave beguntheprocessofupgradingthesystemstoensurethe spacesfeelmorecomfortableandappropriateforallpupils
Theinitialstagesofthisprojectbeganthisyear,withthe fullimprovementssettobecompletedoverthesummer holidays.Weareconfidentthatthesechangeswillhavea positiveimpactandhelpchildrenfeelmoreatease throughouttheschoolday
TreatswiththeHeads
SpendingtimewithourHeadsissomethingallourchildren trulycherish,sowhentheSchoolCouncilproposedthe ideaofaspecialcelebrationtime,weweredelightedto bringittolifeAtOrchardHouse,webelievethat recognisingandcelebratingpositivebehaviouriskeyto creatingahappy,respectful,andnurturingenvironment Eachweek,selectedpupilsfromKS2willenjoyaspecial treat,fromhotchocolatetoicecream,withMrsAdams, whileKS1pupilswillspendtimewithMrsHands-Wicks. Thesemomentswillcelebrateexceptionalwork,kindness, friendship,orresilience thosestandoutcontributionsthat goaboveandbeyondanddeservealittleextrarecognition
Playgrounds and Break Times
Outdoor play and nature-based learning are essential parts of a well-rounded education That’s why we’re delighted to announce a number of exciting playground developments and outdoor initiatives launching in the 2025/2026 academic year.
Our Priory House playground will be receiving a stunning makeover, transforming it into a more creative, dynamic space with a brand-new traversing wall and modular climbing furniture perfect for sparking imagination, movement and collaborative play
Alongside this, some pupils will enjoy regular break times over on the green, giving them access to open, natural spaces where they can run, roam and recharge.
In the Autumn and Summer terms, we hope to see Bizzy Buddies return for some expert-led, highenergy games and sports held on the green. Delivered by the experienced Bizzy Buddies team, these sessions are designed to build confidence, coordination and teamwork, all while having fun
In the Spring term, the children will take part in Forest School Adventures, a much-loved part of our outdoor learning programme Pupils will travel offsite to explore natural woodland surroundings, where they will learn through hands-on experiences that foster independence, resilience, and a deep connection with the natural world
In addition, Year 2 will visit our Newton Grove site weekly to spend time in the playground and become familiar with the environment and staff they’ll join in Year 3. This thoughtful transition ensures our pupils feel confident and comfortable well ahead of their move, turning next year’s ‘new’ into something already familiar and exciting Together, these enhancements reflect our belief that learning doesn't just happen in the classroom and that space, movement, and nature are powerful tools for growth, wellbeing and joy
Sports and PE
Excelling in Sports and PE
Miss Stephanie Furneaux Head of Sport
Physical activity plays a vital role in every child’s development, and at Orchard House, we are committed to helping each pupil discover the confidence and enjoyment that comes from being active.
Our goal is to build a lifelong love of sport for every child, at every level. Whether it’s through structured lessons, playful exploration, or the thrill of competition, we believe in the power of movement to inspire growth, self-belief, and joy
We aim to nurture determination, resilience, teamwork, and personal progress. For those who thrive on challenge, we offer a wide range of fixture opportunities, tournaments and squads, holding our own against the top schools in the country This year, we were incredibly proud to see 15 sports scholarships awarded to our pupils a testament to their hard work, commitment, and love of sport
Equally, we ensure there are plenty of inclusive and fun experiences designed to support and encourage every child on their own sporting journey Whether they’re discovering a new activity for the first time or stepping onto the field for a competitive match, sportsmanship is at the heart of everything we do We pride ourselves on modelling and promoting positive attitudes, with respect, kindness, and fair play always being our top priority.
We’re especially looking forward to this year’s Christmas Fun Run and the ever-popular student vs parent tug-of-war at Sports Day!
The year ahead will see pupils take part in a dynamic and varied curriculum, spanning everything from team sports and swimming to gymnastics, athletics, and fitness We’ll continue to develop skills, explore new sports, and build both physical and mental strength Our lessons are designed not only to teach technique and strategy, but also to instil positive attitudes towards effort, perseverance and collaboration.
Alongside lessons, our sports clubs, squads, and inter-house events will provide even more chances to get involved, push boundaries, and have fun We can’t wait to see what our pupils will achieve in the coming year, and we look forward to celebrating every milestone, big and small, with them.
Warm regards,
Miss Stephanie Furneaux Head of Sport
Autumn Term
At Orchard House, we are passionate about promoting physical activity and nurturing a lifelong love of sport in every child During the Autumn Term, our youngest pupils in Early Years focus on developing fundamental movement skills and coordination through fun, play-based activities using a range of equipment In Key Stage 1, children explore the basics of team games such as football and netball/handball, while also building teamwork, coordination, and balance through an introductory gymnastics module and introduction to team games
As children progress into Key Stage 2, they enjoy a varied PE curriculum including health-related fitness, alternative sports Years 5 and 6 continue to develop their fitness and broaden their sporting experiences, with a strong emphasis on team sports. Games sessions centre around football and netball, with pupils from Year 4 upwards taking part in regular fixtures against other schools Swimming is upmost importance to us at Orchard House, building life long skills in water safety and water confidence, all children in Year 3-6 get half a year of weekly swimming lessons with Year 2 doing a term of swimming in summer.
Outside the classroom, pupils from Year 1 to 6 can take part in a wide variety of after-school sports clubs including multisports, gymnastics, and advanced netball Morning sports squads from Year 3 , upwards offer extra training in football, hockey, netball, running, and swimming
Whether learning new skills or representing the school in competition, every child is encouraged to participate, build confidence, and enjoy being active.
Spring Term
In the Spring Term, our PE and Games curriculum shifts focus to developing coordination, teamwork, and tactical awareness through engaging, age-appropriate activities. In Early Years, children enjoy team-based games that build communication skills and physical confidence.
Key Stage 1 pupils are introduced to new sports such as hockey and tag rugby While there is no formal competition at this stage, children learn the rules and enjoy friendly matches with classmates to help develop resilience and self-belief. Our much-loved House Cross Country and Fun Run event is a highlight of the Spring term, where families and teachers join in for a festive lap of the common in holiday-themed jumpers and hats
In Key Stage 2, children, exploring health-related fitness, developing their fundamental movement skills, resilience, determination and endurance. Children really enjoyed the indoor court games lessons, focusing on benchball, dodgeball and sitting volleyball. Games sessions focus on hockey, rugby, and girls' football, with opportunities for competition through inter-house events and fixtures against other schools Year 3’s much-enjoyed “Mini Six Nations” tag rugby tournament is a highlight, and older pupils prepare for prestigious events such as IAPS Netball along with Dukes Schools sports event and our own OHS hockey tournament. This year our U11 netball team made it through to the IAPS finals and finished in the top 8 of schools in the country
Summer Term
The Summer Term is filled with energy and celebration, as athletics and striking & fielding sports take centre stage In Early Years, children prepare for Sports Day with fun events such as obstacle races, egg and spoon, and wellie throwing, while also enjoying parachute games and early gymnastics
Key Stage 1 pupils continue to develop their athletic skills, practising sprints, throwing, and traditional events like the sack race They are also introduced to tennis and enjoy exploring a variety of striking and fielding games Year 2 begins swimming, building water confidence in a supportive environment
In Key Stage 2, pupils prepare for our full-day Sports Day at King’s House Sports Ground, competing in a wide range of track and field events. Children also focus on cricket in games sessions, with inter-school fixtures providing valuable experience Form 6 pupils have the exciting opportunity to try rowing with Team Keane and can further develop their tennis or padel skills Some of our swimmers get the chance to compete at multiple prestigious events including IAPS, LSSA and LSL swimming events.
Throughout the summer, we continue to balance challenge with enjoyment, offering every child the chance to compete, grow, and most importantly, discover a love for
Performing Arts
The power of Performance
Mr James Hayes Head of Music
Music and drama at Orchard House aren’t just subjects—they are vibrant, joyful cornerstones of school life that spark creativity, build confidence, and create unforgettable memories for our children.
We are incredibly proud of the rich, inclusive arts culturewe’venurturedacrosstheschool.Musicand dramaareessentialelementsofourcurriculum,not only offering pupils the chance to perform and express themselves, but also equipping them with life skills such as resilience, collaboration, communication and emotional intelligence From their earliest days in Eurhythmics where rhythm, movement and music come alive through play, our pupilsareencouragedtolisten,imagine,andcreate
As they progress through the school, we ensure every child can explore and develop their individual talents and interests. Whether they are drawn to composing, acting, singing, playing an instrument, orworkingbehindthescenes,weprovidethespace and support for each pupil to thrive. With over 200 individual music lessons delivered each week and more than 75 Key Stage 2 students performing solo pieces to their peers and parents, the energy and enthusiasm for the arts is unmistakable throughout ourschool
We are delighted to offer such a wide range of musical genres and instruments from drums to oboes, classical to musical theatre, all taught by a team of passionate and highly skilled staff We take care to ensure that every child feels inspired, supported, and challenged, no matter their starting point
This year has been one of great achievement Our pupils have been awarded an impressive 14 scholarshipstoseniorschoolsinmusicanddrama, reflecting their talent, dedication and the strength of our programme. In addition, our students regularly win awards and receive high praise at local music and drama festivals, showcasing the depth of ability and creativity we see in our classroomsandrehearsalseveryday
Looking ahead to next year, we are incredibly excited for what’s to come There is a wonderful line-up of performances, productions, and classbased projects on the horizon, all designed to stretch imaginations and celebrate individual flair From grand stage performances to quiet moments of creative discovery in lessons, every child will be giventheopportunitytoshine
Warmregards, MrJamesHayes
HeadofMusic
In the Classroom
In drama, pupils will dive into a world of creativity and expression Younger children will build confidence and character through imaginative play, while older year groups will develop performance techniques such as improvisation, freeze frame, and devised theatre they will also explore the magic of backstage, experimenting with lighting, sound, and camera work. From puppet-making to live scenes, drama lessons will be packed with opportunities for storytelling, teamwork, and fun.
Music at Orchard House is set to be as vibrant as ever, with over 200 individual lessons taking place each week Year 3 pupils will enjoy our fully-funded Wider Ops programme, where they’ll be lent an instrument, flute, clarinet, trumpet or violin, and receive group tuition during the school day, opening doors to new musical possibilities.
Younger pupils will also be introduced to eurhythmics, an exciting, movement-based approach to learning music Through games, rhythm, and physical expression, they’ll develop coordination, listening skills, and a natural sense of musicality all while having a brilliant time!
Our choirs and ensembles are going from strength to strength, with around 20 in the Junior Choir, 30 in the Chamber Choir and a thriving 70 in the Senior Choir The Parents and Teachers Choir brings joyful weekly rehearsals to our adult community, and the orchestra will grow to 30 members, now including keyboard players and drummers Our many ensembles, including our festival winning Woodwinds and brand new Newton Strings, will continue to thrive and prepare for their performances at the end of each term
In class, pupils will explore rhythm, composition, and music appreciation, using GarageBand, iPads, and MIDI keyboards to bring creativity to life Enrichment opportunities will include a performance at the Bedford Park Festival and planned visits to the Musical Museum and the London Symphony Orchestra, adding even more excitement to an already inspiring year ahead
On Stage
In the autumn term, our youngest pupils will begin their musical journey with weekly Dalcroze Eurhythmics sessions, led by our specialist teacher These joyful, rhythm-based classes will introduce Nursery and Reception children to the fundamentals of music through movement and play laying the foundation for a lifelong love of music and performance.
This will lead into one of the most heartwarming moments of the year: the Nursery and Reception Nativity performances For many children, it will be their first time on stage, and a magical experience for families to witness In Years 1 and 2, pupils will take part in their own festive productions, gaining confidence as they sing, dance, and act using microphones for the first time. Seeing their storytelling come to life will be a joy for all.
The autumn term will conclude with the Upper School Carol Concert at St Michael and All Angels Church Pupils in Years 3 to 6 will perform festive music and poetry, with contributions from soloists, readers, the orchestra, chamber choir, brass ensemble, and an a cappella group. It will be a moving and joyful celebration of their talent.
Our Rising Stars concerts will give pupils the chance to perform solo pieces and share their growing skills across a variety of instruments throughout the year
The Spring Concert will be another highlight, bringing together choirs, ensembles, and soloists for an evening of musical celebration. Last year’s Taylor Swift covers were unforgettable, will this year top them? We can’t wait to find out!
The year will end with the most anticipated event: the Year 6 Show This year’s Shrek was a roaring success, full of laughter and memorable performances We are excited to reveal what’s in store for our next cohort.
From first steps in Eurhythmics to final curtain calls, music and drama will continue to inspire and uplift every child at Orchard House
Innings, Trips & Residentials
Beyond the Classroom
At Orchard House School, we believe that some of the most powerful learning happens beyond the traditional classroom We are committed not only to delivering the highest quality education within our walls, but to taking our students out into the wider world to enhance their learning experiences.
Throughout the year, every year group from Nursery to Year 6 will benefit from wide range of guest visits, including family members, industry experts, and even Olympic athletes, all of whom will bring fresh perspectives and inspiring stories into our school community.
We are also proud to maintain strong links with external educational opportunities as part of our curriculum Our day trips will take students to a diverse range of destinations, from museums and zoos to heritage sites and royal palaces. These outings will all be carefully chosen to align with the children’s topics, helping them deepen their understanding and apply their knowledge in meaningful, real-world contexts
From Form 3 onwards, pupils will take part in residential trips that will offer exciting opportunities for personal growth. These experiences will help them build key life skills such as teamwork, independence, orienteering, and resilience For many students, these trips will become a standout highlight of their school year
Innings and Trips
We are thrilled to be planning another exciting year filled with enriching trips, workshops, and inschool experiences that will bring learning to life across every year group These opportunities will help deepen pupils’ understanding of the curriculum, spark new interests, and create memories that last well beyond the classroom.
Throughout the year, every year group will take part in carefully planned educational visits that link directly to their learning We’re looking forward to returning to some of our favourite destinations such as Buckingham Palace and Kensington Palace for our Kings and Queens topics, and exploring key historical themes at places like the Natural History Museum and other world-class London institutions We can’t wait to see where this year’s trips will take us!
In addition to these exciting excursions, we will welcome a range of visitors into school to lead workshops and provide hands-on, immersive experiences. From "Gross Guts" science sessions to maths-themed balloon shows, these events bring learning to life in the most fun and memorable ways
Science Week will once again be a standout moment in the school calendar, and we’re especially looking forward to inviting parents into classrooms to share their expertise. If any parents would like to give a short talk or lead an activity, we would be delighted, please do get in touch with the school office
These special moments, whether off-site or in the classroom, play a vital role in enhancing the curriculum and igniting curiosity across all year groups We are so excited for the learning adventures ahead!
Residentials
In the Summer Term, all pupils from Year 3 upwards will take part in exciting residential trips, an annual highlight that offers adventure, independence, and unforgettable memories Each experience is carefully designed to promote teamwork, build resilience, and develop outdoor skills in new and inspiring environments
Year 3 will head to Flatford Mill, where pupils will immerse themselves in nature, exploring local habitats and learning about the world around them through hands-on environmental activities It’s the perfect introduction to residential trips, encouraging curiosity, collaboration, and a sense of wonder
Year 4 will take part in a thrilling Bushcraft adventure. Set deep in the woods, this trip offers a true taste of outdoor life, pitching tents, learning essential survival skills, and of course, enjoying evenings around the campfire with toasted marshmallows and storytelling
Year 5 will travel to the Isle of Wight for a dynamic week of exploration and challenge. The itinerary will include watersports, orienteering, and outdoor adventures giving children the chance to step out of their comfort zones, try new things, and strengthen friendships in a truly exciting setting
Finally, Year 6 will take on their most adventurous trip yet: Outward Bound in Wales. Surrounded by dramatic landscapes, pupils will experience rock climbing, abseiling, wild swimming, and watersports. This actionpacked residential will mark the culmination of their outdoor learning journey at Orchard House, celebrating their achievements and preparing them for the next stage of their education
We can’t wait to see the pupils rise to these challenges, support one another, and create lasting memories as they take their learning far beyond the classroom.
Events
School Events
Our calendar for 2025/26 promises another year of exciting events that bring learning to life and celebrate our vibrant school community
Orchard’s Got Talent will return with all the energy and excitement we have come to love Key Stage 2 pupils will have the chance to audition in front of their peers, with selected finalists taking to the stage to perform in front of Year 1-6 and a judging panel Last year’s winners included dancers, singers, and comedians, we can’t wait to see what incredible talent shines on stage this year!
International Day will once again be a colourful celebration of our school’s global community Pupils and staff will wear clothing inspired by their heritage and take part in activities that explore traditions, stories, and cuisines from around the world. It’s a joyful, inclusive day that brings us closer together and deepens our understanding of different cultures
Book Week and World Book Day will see Orchard House transformed into a hub of literary magic Visiting authors and illustrators will lead workshops and inspire pupils of all ages to read, write, and imagine. On World Book Day itself, the school will burst into life as pupils and staff dress as their favourite book characters creating a buzz of creativity and shared love of stories
Science Week will deliver another programme of hands-on discovery and inspiring real-world science. Experts, parents, and professionals will join us to lead interactive workshops and demonstrations, sparking curiosity and excitement From engineering challenges to fascinating tech like last year’s brainwave cap, this week continues to show pupils how science connects to everyday life in fun and surprising ways.
We can’t wait to see these much-loved events return and to make new memories with the pupils, families, and friends who make Orchard House such a special place to learn and grow
Parent and Family Events
Weareexcitedtowelcomeyoutoawiderangeof eventsthroughouttheupcomingacademicyear, designedtostrengthenourschoolcommunity andsupportyourchild’slearningjourney From HomeworkMasterclassesthatofferpracticaltips onhowtosupportlearningathome,tocoffee mornings,parentsocials,andopenclassroom sessions,therewillbeplentyofopportunitiesto connect,learn,andgetinvolved Here’sasneakpeekatsomeoftheWelcome Eventsforthe2025/26schoolyear:
Thursday4th–Thursday11thSeptember KS1andKS2MeettheTeacherEvenings
Anopportunitytomeetyourchild’steacher, hearabouttheyearahead,andaskany questions.
Wednesday17thSeptember
NeurodiversityCoffeeMorning
Achancetoconnectwithotherparentsand staff,shareexperiences,andlearnmoreabout howwesupportneurodiverselearners.
Wednesday24thSeptember ParentSocialEvening(heldatNewtonGrove) Joinusforaninformaleveningof conversationandcommunity
Thursday16thOctober
VisitingMusicTeacherSoirée Enjoyaneveningofmusicandmeetour visitinginstrumentalteachers
We’realsolookingforwardtoalloftheamazing eventsorganisedbytheOrchardHouseSchool ParentAssociationthroughouttheyear for bothparentsandchildrenalike!Forparents, highlightsincludetheever-popularQuizNight andthevibrantSummerFair Meanwhile,the childrencanlookforwardtolivelyschooldiscos, creativecharity-themeddays,andplentyoffunfilledsurprisesalongtheway
Orchard House School 16 Newton Grove, Chiswick London, W4 1LB
