Good to Know

Working in True Partnership

At Orchard Therapeutic Farm, we believe that sustained success for our learners depends on strong, respectful collaboration between families, referrers, and our team. Time and again, our experience has shown that when schools and families work as allies, children flourish.

We’re not perfect — no one is — but by staying connected, curious, and kind, we can work through challenges and unlock your child’s full potential.

We are committed to:

Creating a welcoming, inclusive space where all families feel seen, heard, and supported.
Keeping you informed, involved, and included through regular communication, trackers, and planning updates.
Encouraging an open-door and open-gate culture — your voice is always welcome.
Working together to remove barriers, champion progress, and celebrate every step forward — however small.
Getting to know your child’s key staff member so we can work as a team to support them.
Making time for longer conversations by appointment — we’re here to listen.

Your role in our shared journey:

Let us know about any changes at home or in your child’s life that might affect their time with us.
Arrive and collect on time to help your child build routine and reliability.
Support our shared purpose by encouraging your child to take part in everything Orchard offers.

We are in this together — shoulder to shoulder. Your insight, your stories, and your hopes for your child matter deeply to us.

Term Dates

Take a look at our online calendar for all our key dates

Absence & Sickness

If your child is unwell, please call us before 9:00am on 01865 890047

or email updates@hitchcoxgroup.co.uk.

If they have experienced vomiting or diarrhoea, they will need to stay home for 48 hours after the last episode to help prevent the spread of illness.

If you’re running late, just let us know — we’ll make sure your child is welcomed in and settled calmly.

Inset Days

Our inset day dates are:

Shared each autumn
Published online and in our newsletters
Aligned with local authority dates wherever possible

Emergencies & Bad Weather

In the event of a closure, we’ll share updates via:

Our website
Social media
Direct messages to families

Please make sure we always have your most up-to-date emergency contact details.

When we are open during bad weather, paths will be cleared, but we still advise caution.

Drop-Off & Pick-Up

Morning Drop-Off

Calm, consistent routines each day from 9:00am.
The Centre is open until 2:30pm (Mon, Tues, Fri) and 2:00pm (Weds, Thurs).

Afternoon Pick-Up

Students are escorted to the car park by staff.
Whether collected by parents, carers, or taxis, every child is safely handed over.

Arriving or Leaving Outside Normal Hours

Park in the centre car park and call the office.
A staff member will meet you at the gate to ensure safety and a warm handover.

Clothing & Footwear

We believe in learning by doing — exploring outdoors, hands-on projects, and creativity — so clothing should be practical and comfortable.

What to wear:

Movement-friendly, mess-friendly clothes.
No crop tops, short shorts, or clothing with offensive slogans/images.
Layers for outdoor comfort.
Minimal jewellery (stud earrings and watches only).
All clothing should be labelled.

Footwear:

Outdoor boots or wellies (can be left on site).
Indoor shoes for classroom use.