Orchard School Successfully Renews School of Sanctuary Award

We are absolutely delighted to announce that Orchard School has successfully renewed its School of Sanctuary Award, reaffirming our deep commitment to creating a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our community.

This recognition celebrates the continued dedication of our staff, pupils, governors and wider school community in supporting refugees, asylum seekers and children with English as an Additional Language (EAL). It reflects the values we uphold every day: kindness, respect and a belief that everyone deserves to feel they belong.

The assessment panel spoke highly of the school’s application, noting the "thought, care and collaboration" that underpin our work. They were particularly impressed by how our inclusive ethos is embedded across the school, ensuring that every student, regardless of their background, feels supported, valued and able to thrive.

At Orchard School, we are proud of the work we do to support students from a wide range of cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Through targeted support for EAL learners, a strong pastoral system, and a curriculum that celebrates diversity, we ensure that all young people have the opportunity to succeed. Our ongoing work with refugee families and newly arrived students helps them to settle quickly, build confidence and become an integral part of school life.

This award is not just a recognition of what we have achieved so far, but also a motivation to continue developing and strengthening our provision. The panel will be sharing detailed feedback and recommendations in the coming days, which will help guide our future planning and build on our many strengths.

We are also excited to have been invited to attend the Schools of Sanctuary Celebration Event on 30th June at We The Curious. This will be a wonderful opportunity to celebrate alongside other schools and showcase the incredible work taking place.

We would like to extend a huge thank you and congratulations to everyone who has contributed to this achievement. Together, we continue to make Orchard School a place where everyone is welcome, everyone belongs, and everyone can succeed.