Measuring what matters. Celebrating the whole child.

At The Orchard School, we believe that progress is personal. For pupils with SEMH needs, success is not only academic — it includes emotional regulation, independence, communication, and social confidence. That’s why our approach to assessment is broad, balanced and meaningful.

We track each pupil’s journey closely to understand what’s working, identify next steps, and celebrate progress in all its forms.

Our Approach to Assessment

• Tailored to the needs and pathway of each pupil
• Aligned with EHCP outcomes and therapeutic priorities
• Designed to capture progress in academic, social, emotional and regulatory development
• Used to inform planning, interventions and transition support
• Shared regularly with families and professionals

What We Assess

• Academic Progress: Reading, Writing, Maths and subject knowledge, tracked against individual targets and curriculum frameworks
• EHCP Outcomes: Monitored and reviewed through annual reviews and termly target reviews
• Social & Emotional Development: Using internal tools and observations (including Boxall or similar), alongside key adult feedback
• Behaviour & Regulation: Captured through therapeutic reflections, daily logs and behaviour analysis
• Reading: Tracked three times yearly using the NGRT (New Group Reading Test), plus phonics and fluency interventions where needed

Key Features

• We don’t compare pupils to national averages — we track personal growth and engagement over time
• Termly reviews help identify when to adjust support or celebrate breakthroughs
• All assessments are trauma-informed, pupil-centred and led by staff who know their pupils well

Reporting to Families

We value open dialogue with families and professionals. Progress is shared regularly through:

• Termly reports or review meetings
• EHCP annual reviews
• Informal check-ins, phone calls and shared celebrations