Special free school · Trafford

The Orchards

Special
Ages 3–11

Term dates

Special free schools can set their own term dates. Many follow Trafford council's dates, shown below as a guide, but check with the school, especially for INSET days.

2026/27

2027/28

See Trafford's full dates

Admissions

Places at special schools are usually arranged through an education, health and care (EHC) plan, agreed with the council.

How EHC plans work on GOV.UK

Before and after school

This club is registered with Ofsted at the school's postcode, so usually run on the school site:

Barton Club. Ofsted report

Ask the club or the school about times, prices and places. More clubs nearby.

Ofsted inspection

Short (ungraded) inspection, 12 February 2025: Improved significantly.

Read the Ofsted reports

From Ofsted's published inspection data (Open Government Licence). Report cards and older grades use different scales, so they can't be compared directly.

About and location

Type: Special free school
Phase: Special
Ages: 3–11
Pupils: 148 (capacity 149)
Gender: Mixed
Academy trust: BRIGHT FUTURES EDUCATIONAL TRUST
Phone: 01617480670
Address: Audley Avenue, Stretford, M32 9TG
Website: theorchards.bright-futures.co.uk

Official school record, including Ofsted reports

School details from the Department for Education's register of schools (Open Government Licence). Report a correction.