Structure that supports safety, learning and regulation.
At The Orchard School, consistency is key. Our daily routine is designed to support emotional regulation, social connection and academic readiness — all within a calm, relational structure that helps our pupils feel safe, settled and prepared to learn.
08:45 – 09:10: Social and Emotional Learning (Check-ins)
Each day begins with a calm, structured check-in. Pupils are welcomed into school by familiar staff, with time and space to emotionally regulate, reconnect with peers and prepare for learning. These sessions often include emotional literacy, routines, and gentle goal setting.
09:10 – 12:00: Core Learning
Focused academic learning (e.g. English, Maths, Reading) supported by regulation breaks and responsive teaching.
12:00 – 12:30: Lunch
A calm, supported mealtime where relationships are built and pupils are given time to recharge.
12:30 – 13:00: DEAR Time (Drop Everything and Read)
A whole-school 30-minute reading session that supports fluency, focus and a love of books. Staff read alongside pupils to model engagement, regulation and routine.
13:00 – 14:15: Afternoon Sessions / Enrichment / Interventions
Time for curriculum extension, PSHE, wellbeing sessions, outdoor learning or targeted intervention work depending on phase and need.
14:15 – 14:30: End-of-Day Check-In / Reflection (Mon–Thu)
Staff and pupils end the day calmly, reviewing successes, setting intentions, and preparing for the transition home.
This shorter day is also part of our strategy to support emotional regulation and reduce Friday fatigue often experienced by pupils with SEMH needs.
We understand that not all pupils can access a full day immediately. Individualised or phased timetables are created where necessary and reviewed regularly with families and professionals.