The Orchard

The Orchard has been created within a former library at Mark Hall Academy to offer students a range of learning interventions, emotional support and a safe space to reset and recharge.

Students also have access to a guinea pig, dog, arts, crafts, Lego therapy and books and games, as well as sensory equipment as part of the brand-new venture.

The space is used for interventions, one-to-one meetings, regulation time, quiet reading and mindfulness.

Students have scheduled sessions in The Orchard, with phonics, numeracy, handwriting, counselling and various therapies all on offer.

Daisy the therapy dog visits weekly to assist with paired reading and social, emotional and mental health support, along with school guinea pig Piggle.

During Lego therapy, students are encouraged to communicate and interact with each other while improving their resilience and wellbeing.