Mrs Henrietta AdamsMessage from our Head
It is a privilege to lead Orchard House School, a thriving and joyful community in the heart of West London. As one of the area’s leading prep schools, we are proud of our reputation not only for outstanding academic results, but also for nurturing the unique talents of every child.
At Orchard House, children are at the centre of everything we do. Small classes, dedicated teachers and an award-winning approach to pastoral care ensure that every pupil feels safe, happy and valued. We know that children learn best when they feel safe and engaged, and our aim is always to provide an environment where they can flourish.
We are proud to be a co-educational school, welcoming boys and girls from the ages of 3 to 11. Our unique curriculum combined with our expert approach to the 11+ , equips pupils to move on to leading senior schools in London and beyond. Each year, many of our children achieve scholarships in academics, sport, music, drama, art and chess. Yet what matters most is that every pupil finds the school that is right for them where they will continue to thrive.
As we prepare our pupils for an ever-changing world, we focus not only on outstanding teaching and learning but also on our values that underpin true success: excellence, honesty and kindness. We want our children to develop a love of learning, an appreciation of hard work, and a sense of responsibility for others. Alongside this, our rich programme of enrichment opportunities helps them discover new skills and passions that will support them throughout their lives.
Above all, Orchard House is a community. Pupils, parents and staff come together to create a warm and caring environment where achievement and enjoyment go hand in hand. There is plenty of laughter alongside the hard work, and a genuine spirit of support that extends well beyond the classroom.
This is an exciting moment in Orchard House’s story, and I warmly invite you to visit us to experience the energy, warmth and ambition of our school for yourself.
Mrs Henrietta Adams
Head of School
Meet our Head Mrs Henrietta Adams
Henrietta Adams has lived in West London for most of her life, having grown up in Bedford Park, Chiswick. She studied French and Music at the University of London before qualifying as a solicitor, but her passion for education soon led her to retrain as a teacher at the Institute of Education.
Henrietta began her teaching career at Chiswick & Bedford Park Preparatory School in 2011, where she went on to become Director of Studies, Assistant Head, and later Headmistress in 2020. Following the merger of CBPPS with Orchard House, she was appointed Head of Orchard House School in 2024.
Fluent in French and a talented musician, Henrietta plays both the flute and piano. Outside of school she enjoys skiing and sailing, hobbies she shares with her family.
Fun Facts:
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Favourite thing about OHS: “The laughter you hear every day around the school. It’s such a joyful place to be.”
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Favourite subject as a child: “French, I had the most amazing teacher who made me fall in love with the language and the country!”
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Pupils would be surprised to know: “I studies Music alongside French at university, and love playing my flute and piano.”
At Orchard House, our goal is simple: for every child to feel happy, valued and inspired to achieve their very best. We want our pupils to leave us not only with excellent academic foundations, but with confidence, kindness and a genuine love of learning that will stay with them for life.”
