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...
Our teaching and learning philosophy
Developing analytical and critical thinkers
Our academic approach prioritises independence and resilience through metacognitive learning and a growth mindset.Â
- Metacognitive learning encourages students to recognise their cognitive abilities, evaluate their learning and performance, and take charge of their educational path.
- A growth mindset teaches students that intelligence and abilities can be developed through effort and resilience, emphasising that mistakes and setbacks are opportunities for learning and growth.Â
We promote inquiry and critical thinking through questions, deep discussions, and problem-solving activities. Collaboration is not just encouraged, but essential, emphasising active listening, respect for diverse opinions, and constructive challenges.Â
We believe that our approach enriches students’ critical thinking skills, encourages them to embrace challenges, and helps them excel academically and personally.
Promoting academic excellence as an accredited Thinking School
As an accredited Thinking School affiliated with Exeter University, we believe that cultivating independent and self-reflexive learners is an essential part of our students’ development.
A Thinking School is a whole school approach to developing the transferable thinking and cognitive skills that enable students to:
- Think more creatively, critically, and reflectively
- Learn from their experiences
- Think through problems, and approach new challenges
- Evaluate how they learn best, and apply that knowledge to their personal learning journey
The Thinking Schools initiative is an evidence-based approach to education that results in academic excellence. Students from accredited primary Thinking Schools in the UK show the equivalent to a grade’s worth of progress in their SATs tests compared to those starting at the same point at non Thinking Schools.
Fostering future-ready skills
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We believe that learning isn’t just important in a school environment — it’s how we apply what we learn throughout our lifetime that matters. This is why we developed our 11 core Thinking Skills to equip everyone — students, parents, and staff — with the skills needed to navigate our future world.
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Our 11 Thinking Skills are central to everything we do at Orley Farm:
- Ambition
- Creativity
- Curiosity
- Empathy
- Flexibility of mind
- Focus
- Good judgement
- Initiative
- Risk taking
- Resilience
- Reflection
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.