Our History

The history of Orchard House School begins with our sister school, Bassett House in North Kensington, founded in 1947 by Sylvia Rentoul with just six pupils. At a time when education was often rigid and traditional, shaped by the belief that “children should be seen and not heard,” Sylvia introduced a philosophy that was ahead of its time. She believed passionately that children should be encouraged to express themselves, that learning should be both supportive and challenging, and that teaching must always take account of the unique needs of every child.

In 1993, inspired by Sylvia’s vision, her sons founded Orchard House School on its Newton Grove site. The school grew steadily, and in 2010 was expanded with the purpose-built Early Years building on Rupert Road. Sylvia’s child-centred approach not only endures but flourishes at Orchard House, forming the foundation of our ethos to this day.

In February 2020, Orchard House, together with Bassett House and Prospect House, joined Dukes Education. This marked a new chapter in the school’s story, opening up fresh opportunities for collaboration, innovation and growth.

Shortly afterwards, in 2021, Dukes Education acquired Chiswick & Bedford Park Preparatory School (CBPPS), a wonderful school just around the corner from Orchard House, with whom we shared much in common. Both schools had long histories of academic excellence and strong moral ethos, and a deep commitment to nurturing each child as an individual. Over the following two years, Orchard House and CBPPS worked closely together under the joint leadership of Kit Thompson (then Head of Orchard House) and Henrietta Adams (then Head of CBPPS), ensuring a positive and enriching experience for pupils at both schools.

Today, under the leadership of Head Henrietta Adams, Orchard House is a fully merged and united community. Our pupils wear a new uniform that reflects our shared identity, and they are taught by a dedicated, talented team who are committed to providing the very best education. We are proud that our most recent Year 6 cohort achieved over 50 scholarships across music, art, drama, sport, chess and academics, the highest number in our history.

Our innovative curriculum, The Learning Orchard, has already been shortlisted for the TES Primary Curriculum Leader of the Year Award, and, alongside our outstanding pastoral care, ensures children flourish not only academically, but also in confidence, creativity, and kindness.

From Sylvia Rentoul’s pioneering ideals to the thriving school we are today, Orchard House has always placed children at the centre of everything we do. Her vision of education, joyful, individualised, and forward-looking, continues to shape our future and remains at the heart of our community.