Welcome to Orley Farm – Here at Orley Farm, we understand how important choosing a new school is for the whole family. We are here to guide and support you through the process every step of the way. Being on the doorstep to London with great...
Academic curriculum
Fostering independent and self-reflective learners
At Orley Farm, we prioritise a creative and inclusive curriculum designed to nurture growth, adaptability, and resilience. Our academic curriculum not only focuses on preparing students for advanced exams, but aims to equip them with the core skills they need for the future.
Our innovative Pre-Prep and Middle School Creative Curriculum is designed to help students connect their learning across academic subjects, and develop skills including critical thinking and problem-solving.Â
In Upper School, we build on these foundational skills, introducing new challenges to build students’ confidence and independence, and encouraging them to explore new avenues for learning.Â
Throughout every stage of education at Orley Farm, we believe in removing barriers to success with the right support and determination. Our educational philosophy is rooted in inclusivity, ensuring that every student will be provided with access to the support they need to thrive.Â
Preparing for examination success
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Exam preparation is a crucial phase in every student’s academic journey. As our students progress through Orley we deliver a ‘study skills programme’ tailored to each child helping them to identify specific strategies that work for them – ownership is so important at this stage. This helps our students:
- Understand exams as an opportunity to test their progress
- Develop a resilient and open mindset to facing tests and exams
- Self-reflect on their opportunities for learning
Curriculum overview
Pre-Prep: Reception to Year 2
In Pre-Prep, we offer a creative, hands-on curriculum with experiential learning to engage our youngest students and promote connection across academic subjects.
This approach includes art, music, drama, field trips, and science experiments, fostering curiosity, and play-based learning. Our Creative Curriculum emphasises critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork.
Middle School: Years 3 and 4
In Middle School, we continue to offer a stimulating, cross-curricular approach with themes designed to spark curiosity. At the end of Year 4, we also introduce subject-specific teachers in some subjects.
Our unique creative curriculum integrates multiple subjects with a growing sophistication in both literacy and numeracy. We build in more ownership through expectation around independence and collaborations. We aim to inspire students, nurture inquisitive minds, encourage self-identity, promote cultural respect, and prioritise mental health and well-being.
Upper School: Years 5 to 8
In Upper School, we emphasise the importance of challenges in learning to develop metacognitive skills, a growth mindset, and independence. We provide demanding tasks to promote critical thinking and problem-solving. From Year 5, subject-specific are introduced for all lessons, allowing for a more diverse and challenging curriculum well beyond the National Curriculum. We also offer:
- Classics lessons to explore ancient civilisations’ impact on modern society
- Participation in STEAM competitions to foster creativity and innovation
- Research projects for Year 6 students through our QUEST programme
- Dedicated scholarship classes in Year 7 and 8 for academic scholarship preparation
These additional opportunities create a dynamic and supportive learning environment for students to thrive both academically and personally.
Where to next?
Learning for Life – We want our children to lead rich and fulfilling lives, whichever path they choose to tread! We call this the Orley Farm Way and a core aspect is delivered through our innovative ‘Edge’ programme. The programme is unique and has been...
Exceptional facilities in a natural setting – Orley Farm’s school grounds cover 39 acres of fields, woodlands, and meadows, providing a tranquil and green space right on the doorstep of the capital city. Boasting purpose-built, modern facilities, the interior of the school is just as...
Ready to explore the next step?
After reading through our information we very much hope that you will consider us as your first choice school.
The next step is to Book A Tour where we would be more than happy to show you around the school grounds and see what facilities we have to offer in supporting your child’s future.