Shiplake College

Orchard House is one of two day houses at Shiplake College and is situated right at the heart of the school behind the main pavilion. We have about 75 boys from Year 9 to Year 12. Our Year 13 boys and girls live in close proximity to Orchard in College and Gilson Houses respectively and assist in the smooth running of the House, leading sports, musical activities and by helping the tutors during the day.

Orchard House recognises that students are only capable of achieving their full potential when they are happy, fulfilled and valued. This appreciation is at the very heart of the work that goes on in the pastoral side of the house where all teaching staff and senior students play their part in creating an atmosphere and ethos where each individual in the community feels secure and comfortable. From the Housemaster down to our student peer mentors there is an awareness of the needs of young teenagers that is combined with sensible and consistent guidance that engenders a sense of personal responsibility and good citizenship. The key figures in the House are the Housemaster (Mr Richard Curtis) and Assistant Housemaster (Mr Douglas Seymour). They are magnificently supported by a dedicated team of Visiting Tutors, House Tutors, Support Staff and, not forgetting, our effervescent Matron (Mrs Jane Burtt).