St John the Baptist College in Portadown opened The Orchard provision in September 2025. The facility includes two specialist classes: one for learning support and another for social communication needs.

Eamonn Broderick, chief executive of the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools, and Mairead Harvey, director of education, opened the provision on Thursday.

Broderick stated that schools are developing specialist support in mainstream settings. He noted that The Orchard shows commitment to inclusion and enabling pupils with additional needs to succeed in their local school.

Principal Noella Murray said the school aims for an inclusive environment where all children receive education together in a supportive setting, regardless of ability or need.

The Orchard addresses increased demand for specialist places for children with special educational needs. Staff received training from the Education Authority and visited other schools for expertise.

The college holds School of Sanctuary status and received the Autism NI Impact Award. It started an Autism Ambassador Programme to involve pupils with autism and their parents in planning.

Plans exist to expand the provision in September 2026 to additional key stages. Pupils from The Orchard now join mainstream classes, form friendships, and take part in school activities.