Academy Houses

At Orchard View, our Academy House system is designed to reflect our identity and values. Our Houses were chosen democratically by our founding OVPA pupils and align with our Orchard View name, symbolising growth, nurture and achievement. The House system promotes our PRIDE values (Partnership, Respect, Integrity, Determination and Excellence), while also supporting the development of British Values.

Through shared activities, leadership opportunities and House points, our pupils develop a strong sense of belonging, responsibility and pride in themselves and their academy community. 

All pupils and staff belong to one of our four Academy Houses:

Together we Learn, Together we Succeed

What are Academy Houses?

Academy Houses are smaller communities within the academy that bring together pupils from different year groups. Each pupil is allocated a house when they join the academy (siblings are allocated the same house) and will remain in this house throughout their time at Orchard View. This structure encourages partnership and collaboration, helping pupils to build positive relationships and learn from one another.

Through the House system, pupils are encouraged to:

• Show respect and tolerance towards others, valuing different views, backgrounds and beliefs

• Act with integrity, making honest and responsible choices

• Demonstrate determination through effort, resilience and perseverance

• Strive for excellence in learning, behaviour and participation

• Work in partnership with peers and staff to support a positive academy community

Promoting British Values through the House system

The House system provides pupils with meaningful opportunities to experience democracy in action. Pupils vote for House captains and representatives, have opportunities to share their views and contribute ideas, helping them to understand how democratic processes work and why pupil voice matters.

Clear expectations and fair systems for earning House points help pupils develop an understanding of rules, fairness and the rule of law. Pupils learn that positive behaviour, respect for others and acting with integrity are recognised and rewarded consistently.

The House system also supports individual liberty, encouraging pupils to take on leadership roles, express their opinions respectfully and make positive choices, while understanding the responsibilities that come with these freedoms.

House points and activities

Pupils can earn House points for:

• Demonstrating our PRIDE values in daily school life

• Positive behaviour and attitudes to learning

• Academic effort, progress and determination

• Showing kindness, respect and cooperation

House points contribute to whole-academy rewards and celebrations, promoting a shared sense of achievement and excellence across Orchard View.

Leadership and pupil voice

The Academy House system offers valuable leadership opportunities. A House Captain and Vice Captain are elected for each house at the beginning of each academic year. House Captains and Vice Captains are expected to act as role models, support younger pupils and help organise events and competitions.

Throughout the year, Houses take part in a range of activities such as Sports Day (and other sporting events), creative challenges, fundraising and community projects. These opportunities encourage teamwork, healthy competition, leadership and active citizenship.