The Orchard Team

The Orchard is staffed by experienced, caring professionals who are passionate about inclusive education. Our team works closely together - and with families - to provide the high-quality, personalised support every child needs to feel safe, grow in confidence and succeed. 

Mr Shepherd 

SENDCo | NASENCo Accredited 

Mr Shepherd is our SENDCo and also teaches sessions within The Orchard. He is NASENCo accredited and has five years of experience in this leadership role. 

He brings expertise, a clear commitment to inclusive education, and a strong focus on ensuring every child receives the right support at the right time. As SENDCo he oversees placement decisions, quality of provision, external agency links and progress monitoring across The Orchard. 

Mrs Ingham 

Specialist SEN Teaching Assistant 

Mrs Ingham is our newly appointed Specialist SEN Teaching Assistant. 

She has extensive experience supporting pupils with high-level needs across the school and is passionate about helping every child to thrive. Mrs Ingham works closely with children on a daily basis, delivering personalised support, interventions and nurturing relationships that help pupils feel secure and ready to learn. 

Mrs Forden 

SEN Support Specialist 

Mrs Forden has worked with children with special educational needs for over 20 years, including those with social communication challenges. 

Her wealth of experience and calm, nurturing approach make her an invaluable member of The Orchard team. She brings deep knowledge of how to support children to develop communication, regulation and independence skills in a warm and consistent way. 

Miss Stafford 

SEN Teaching Assistant 

Miss Stafford is a newly appointed Teaching Assistant at Bamford Academy. 

She has experience working with children with SEN and is excited to be part of The Orchard. Miss Stafford is committed to supporting pupils to build confidence, develop positive relationships and reach their individual potential. 

We work together to nurture, support and empower every child. 

At The Orchard, we believe in every child. 

Related pages 

  • About The Orchard
  • Understanding Cherry Garden Branch Maps 
  • The Orchard Curriculum 
  • Full Support Base Policy