Orchard Hill College

Kelly Phillips, Executive Principal at Orchard Hill College, took to the stage at the Natspec National Conference 2026 to discuss the quality of specialist Further Education (FE). 🎤

Kelly highlighted the vital role specialist FE plays in transforming outcomes for young people with additional needs, emphasising high expectations, personalised learning and meaningful pathways into adulthood. Her insights reinforced the importance of collaboration, innovation and maintaining excellence across the sector.

A powerful contribution to an important national conversation, showcasing Orchard Hill College’s commitment to delivering outstanding specialist education. ✨️

Joined by members of the Orchard Hill College Senior Leadership Team, the conference provided a valuable opportunity to share insight, collaborate and contribute to sector-wide discussions.

This Learning Disabilities Week, we’re proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. 😊

This recognition reflects our ongoing commitment to inclusion and equality in the workplace. As part of the Government’s Disability Confident scheme, we are taking meaningful action to improve how we recruit, support and develop disabled staff.

From accessible recruitment processes to tailored workplace adjustments, we are working hard to create an environment where everyone feels valued and supported to thrive. 🫶

This achievement closely aligns with our mission to support learners with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), not only in education but in employment too.

We’ll continue to champion accessibility, raise awareness and create opportunities for all. 🤗

Club House is back THIS WEEK and we're ready to party! 🎶💃🕺

📅 Thursday 18 June, 7-10pm

📍 Sutton Venue
Sutton United Football Club
Gander Green Lane, Sutton SM1 2EY

📍 Hillingdon Venue
Brunel University – Hamilton Centre, Student Union
Kingston Lane, UB8 3PH
🚗 Free parking on North Loop Road

🎟 Tickets can be purchased on the door with cash or card.
For more information: https://orchardhill.ac.uk/your-college/outcomes-for-students/club-house/

Do you see me? Yes we do!

This week is Learning Disability Week from 15-21 June. The theme for 2026 is "Do you see me?" which is all about people with a learning disability being seen, heard and valued.

We will continue to share and celebrate all the fantastic achievements of our students who inspire us every day with their outstanding achievements, resilience and growth.❤️

Congratulations to our learners who recently received their Duke of Edinburgh's Gold Award at Buckingham Palace.👏

Achieving Gold is a significant accomplishment, requiring participants to complete volunteering, physical activity and skills development programmes, alongside expeditions and a residential experience. It is a journey that demands commitment, resilience and determination over an extended period.

This year's celebration was particularly special as the Duke of Edinburgh's award marks its 70th anniversary. According to the DofE, 345,908 young people started a programme across the UK last year, with 9.3% identifying as having additional needs. Reaching Gold Award level is an outstanding achievement for any young person, making our students' success all the more worthy of celebration.

At Orchard Hill College, we are proud to support young people with additional needs to access opportunities that build confidence, independence and skills for life.

Well done to our learners for achieving their Gold Award😊

🎉Inspiring winners of the London South East Colleges Learner and Teacher Awards

We were delighted that two exceptional learners were recognised and presented with awards on behalf of the Committee of South London Principals (COSLP).

Two members of staff were also recognised for their dedication and outstanding practice.

Kelly Philips, Executive Principal of the College, said, “This is a really special event recognising exceptional achievements and I am delighted that once again our learners and staff are showing that there are no limits to what they can achieve.”

This event celebrated its 22nd year and was kindly hosted by Lord Tope in the spectacular setting of the House of Lords.

Read more
https://orchardhill.ac.uk/celebrating-success-at-the-house-of-lords/

🌈 We’re celebrating Pride Month!

We’re proud to champion inclusive environments and stand against discrimination in all its forms, not just this month, but every month.

Together, we create a community where everyone belongs. 🏳️‍🌈

Ready for a great night out? Club House is back! 🎉

📅 Thursday 18 June, 7-10pm

📍 Sutton venue
Sutton United Football Club
Gander Green Lane, Sutton SM1 2EY

📍 Hillingdon venue
Brunel University - Hamilton Centre, Student Union
Kingston Lane, UB8 3PH
🚗 Free parking on North Loop Road

🎟 Tickets can be purchased on the door with cash or card.

For more info: https://orchardhill.ac.uk/your-college/outcomes-for-students/club-house/