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The main aim of the Orchard School is to provide a happy, secure environment for its pupils. It is hoped that all children irrespective of mental or physical ability, race or gender, will achieve the best results of which they are capable and that they will respect their fellow pupils and all staff at the school.
The school actively supports the fundamental British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.
Orchard School is a co-educational day school for pupils from 5 to 16 years of age, has been at its present premises at South Leverton since January 1992. Set in 24 acres of beautiful landscaped parkland, the school has since been substantially improved and enlarged with Science and Art blocks, a multi-purpose Hall, Language and CDT rooms and a Drama Studio.
The Nursery Department continues to operate from the former premises at Holly Road, Retford and caters for children aged 2 to 5. The Reception class for the upper school is based at the Nursery.
In its happy, family atmosphere, where discipline is firm but fair, the best in each child is brought out. Classes are deliberately kept small so that help can be given to all children to develop to their full potential. While attention is given to the need for educating children in accordance with modern practice, the school still uses the best of proven traditional methods of teaching.
The school has always given a high priority to basic literacy and numeracy and has a recognised reputation in these areas. All this is achieved by a loyal and enthusiastic staff of well qualified and experienced teachers, paying attention to the individual needs of each pupil. Progress is constantly monitored and communicated to parents, and there are termly report sheets and annual full written reports.
The school recognises the differing parental circumstances and varying needs of its pupils and is therefore very flexible about admission ages. Some parents may choose to have their children educated at the Orchard School from Nursery through to the age of 16. Others may wish them to gain the firm foundations here to prepare them for success in the 11 Plus Examination with the view to moving on to a Grammar School. Yet other children may join at the age of 11 or 13 years from either the State or the independent sector.
Additionally to the timetabled subjects, pupils are given the opportunity to study musical instruments including the keyboard, flute, clarinet, guitar, saxophone and drums.
Great emphasis is also placed on the personal and social development of each child, resulting in young people who are self-confident, articulate, well mannered, and responsible members of society. Community involvement has included the raising of funds to support local and national charities e.g. Macmillan Nurses, Bluebell Wood Children's Hospice, Samaritan's Purse, Water Aid and Children in Need to mention just a few.
The educational partnership between the school and the parents of its pupils is viewed as being of immense importance. Parents are always welcomed into the classrooms to view progress or to talk to staff about any problems.
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