The Orchard School

Overview

The Orchard School is a special school where staff make pupils feel valued and support them to achieve well, living by the motto ‘Together we learn’. The report highlights that the curriculum is now logically thought out and rooted in the early years, with staff regularly checking learning to address gaps quickly. Parents describe the school as ‘amazing’, noting that children accomplish things they once thought impossible.

Strengths

• Staff get to know pupils deeply, giving them a ‘genuine voice’ and helping them rise to meet high aspirations.
• Clear routines, including songs and rhymes, help pupils settle well and move seamlessly between activities.
• The curriculum prepares pupils effectively for phonics and reading, with a new library that is ‘well resourced and fully accessible’.
• Personal development is well considered, helping pupils become responsible citizens and develop resilience to ‘have a go’.
• Leaders have supported staff well during a time of challenge and change, ensuring the best interests of pupils are prioritised.

Areas to improve

• The school should provide support to staff so pupils are given opportunities to secure curriculum knowledge and skills linked to their EHC plans effectively.
• The school should ensure all staff implement agreed communication systems, such as symbols, signing, and technology, consistently to support pupil progress.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.