he STAR (Strength, Triumph, Aspirations, Resilience) at Orchard Park High School is our school provision dedicated to supporting and delivering pastoral care to students with a focus on nurturing mental health and well-being. The dedicated building within the school grounds is managed by Ms Turner, Pastoral Support Manager.

The STAR is the hub for our school counselling service and is open to all students to drop in before school and after school, a referral service is in place at break and lunch times.  Our two wellbeing dogs, Paddy and Betty are also on call for support. 

The STAR tutor group operates during P0 (tutor time reading) when Ms Turner meets with students who face independent barriers to learning each morning. The aim of this intervention is to provide tailored pastoral care to ensure students are ready for their day ahead and provide support for individual circumstances.  

“The STAR has helped me to come into school, it has also helped me with my communication skills and talking to people.” – Year 8 Student

“I like The STAR because it has helped me destress and helps me get organised for the day”.
– Year 9 Student

Our students feel Orchard Park High School is a safer and more supportive school, supporting the individual needs of student well-being and mental health. We now have a number of key staff that are trained in mental health youth first-aid as our students' well-being is paramount.