Skip to content
  • Pupils

    When pupils are heard, they grow. When they lead, they thrive.

    At The Orchard School, we believe that pupil voice is not a token gesture — it’s at the heart of our relational and therapeutic approach. Many of our young people arrive having felt unheard or misunderstood in previous settings. We work to change that.

    We create safe, consistent spaces where pupils can share their views, influence decisions, and see that their opinions matter. Through conversation, visuals, key adult relationships and structured groups, we help every pupil find their voice — in their own way and time.

    How Pupil Voice Lives at Orchard

    • Key Adults: Every pupil builds a trusted relationship with at least one key adult who listens, advocates and supports their day-to-day needs
    • Pupil Reflections: Integrated into restorative conversations, target setting and learning reviews
    • Therapeutic Conversations: Used during regulation and repair to understand what pupils need
    • Curriculum Design: Pupil feedback helps shape topics, projects and enrichment opportunities
    • School Council / Pupil Panels: Pupils have the chance to contribute to whole-school improvement through structured, supported forums
    • EHCP Reviews: Pupil voice is embedded in the review process, using accessible formats and trusted support
    • Class and Phase Meetings: Opportunities to raise ideas, share concerns and explore solutions in a safe group setting

    Why It Matters

    • Promotes confidence, ownership and belonging
    • Builds trusting relationships through active listening
    • Encourages emotional expression and self-advocacy
    • Models democratic decision-making and respect for difference
    • Helps us shape a school that works for the children and young people it serves

    Everyone Matters. Everyone Cares. Everyone is heard.