Reports & ReviewsThe Independent Schools Inspectorate
Orchard House School is regularly inspected by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI). These inspections assess all aspects of school life — including leadership, teaching, curriculum, safeguarding, and the overall wellbeing and development of pupils. The most recent inspection took place in June 2025.
In the 2025 report, Orchard House School was found to ‘meet’ all statutory requirements, with particular praise for its strong leadership, effective safeguarding, purposeful teaching, and the excellent academic and personal development of pupils. The inspection team shared warm and encouraging informal feedback with staff throughout their visit. The report reflects the inspectors’ strong impression of the entire school community, which parents will see as they read through the findings.
Highlights from the 2025 Inspection
The school meets all the required Standards set out in the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014, including those relating to leadership and management, the quality of education, safeguarding, pupils’ physical and mental health, and their social and economic education. No further action is required as a result of the inspection.
- Responsibilities are carried out effectively, with full compliance with statutory requirements.
- The school’s work is regularly and thoroughly evaluated. Priorities for development are clearly identified and acted upon.
- Potential risks to pupils’ wellbeing are identified early, with appropriate steps taken to manage and mitigate them.
- Safeguarding arrangements are robust. Staff are well-trained, and pupils feel safe and confident in knowing how to seek support.
- The school delivers an ambitious, well-structured curriculum that builds knowledge and skills over time, and connects learning to real-world contexts, tailored to pupils’ individual needs.
- Teaching is purposeful and responsive, enabling pupils to make strong progress from their starting points.
- Early Years provision is a particular strength, with a stimulating environment that supports both academic and social development.
- Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), and those with English as an additional language (EAL), are effectively supported
- Pupils behave respectfully and show empathy and kindness.
- The school prioritises mental health and wellbeing. Staff are supportive, and pupils show resilience and self-awareness in managing challenges.
- Pupils explore British values and life in modern Britain, reflecting on justice, democracy, and ethics. They show respect for others and understand fairness, equality, and social responsibility.
- Pupils actively contribute to school and community life. They take part in charitable initiatives, support younger peers, and take on meaningful leadership roles.
Download the 2023 Material Change Inspection Report
Download the 2018 regulatory compliance report
Reports & ReviewsHear from our Community
“I was so moved and impressed by all the teachers on the trip. It reaffirmed our choice of sending our children to OHS. The focus on good manners, politeness and consideration to others was well balanced and delivered with authority and affection. I can see why the children all grow up to be confident and assertive; it’s because they are treated with respect and discipline in equal proportions.”
– Mrs Barclay
“All the teachers know the names of all the children at our school and they really care about us. It feels like a second home”
– Annabel – Year 5
“Both my children loved their time at Orchard House and it has been amazing to see how they have developed and grown during their time there. My Daughter looks back at her time at OHS with very fond memories, and I’m sure my son will do too. All their teachers, and other staff, have been wonderful, without exception. Orchard House is a very special school.”
– Mr Pitman
“The teachers are great! They spend time with you and help you when your stuck. I really like its when they help me understand maths!”
– Oliver – Year 2
“I just want to mention what great ideas OHS has to keep learning engaging, like the holiday “homework”. It was really refreshing for the boys to be given a list of fun, diverse and challenging activities to complete. Aside from it not being focused on academics, it also gave them the chance to try out activities that they’d not had the opportunity to do before.”
– Mrs Thaysen
“I love the sports coaches and playing in all the matches. Everyone gets a chance to play and represent the school, which is great for bringing us all together.”
– Sam – Year 6