Orchard House school in Chiswick

[Loren43]

Hi there, we're moving to Chiswick, and a few months ago we looked round Orchard House prep school. We were impressed by the sports and clubs on offer and the community feel. We weren't so impressed by the small building, cramped, grotty classrooms or the fact that our daughter's classroom would be turned into the lunch hall every day. Plus the headmistress did not make time to see us on any of the 3 occasions we visited. On the other hand, their 11+ results are quite good. Does anybody have any experience with Orchard House? Thank you, Loren.

Hello! We're just nipping onto your thread, @Loren43 and bumping it in the hope that someone local to you will be able to offer some wise words.

Fingers crossed!

Hi, we have 2 very happy children at OHS and happy to chat through any concerns. Drop me a PM. Hth.

The head is not one of the school’s strengths but the children and families in our neighbourhood are happy there which speaks to the quality of the teachers. There is also more outdoor space than some small London prep schools. It has a friendly, small school feel but was recently purchased by a large education corporation so that may change.

I have children in the upper part of the school so can comments on points that will become important later on but worth keeping in mind now. 1/ The teachers are excellent, really cannot praise them enough. They are lovely with the children and engaged in their jobs. Really stellar. 2/ The school management and handling of the 11+ process (not the teaching) is not good. They are just not on it and not helpful to parents going through this process.
Happy to speak further over pm.