Placement Information

Orchard Children's Centre is a community based project aimed at helping children and families, particularly those with underlying issues. It also helps get parents back into work and holds workshops specifically aimed at the parents. It works alongside central Bedfordshire and provides a range of services such as baby clinics, CV practice sessions and an on site team at the local military base. There are also many different sessions and activities for you to join in with so every day is different. It is also a great opportunity to meet new people and engage with different families. 

The team at orchards centre are very warm and welcoming and they are willing to help with any queries you may have. I loved every minute of my placement experience. 

Accomodation

I stayed at home during this placement as I do not live too far away. The centre cannot provide accommodation, however there are many local B&B's and hotels near by where accommodation would be available, such as the Airman. http://www.hotels.uk.com/details/AAB34087/The%20Airman%20Hotel.htm

Transport

I drove to placement as it is a very simple route following one road. However there are buses and trains available if driving is not a possibility. Just check the bus times for Bedfordshire. 

Social life

There are many beautiful surroundings in Shefford and beyond into Central Beds. There are many local parks for you to go walking and restaurants and bars in surrounding areas such as Ampthill and Flitwick which are about a 15 minute journey away. The local town, Bedford, is full of things to do such as the cinema, bowling, restaurants, bars, clubs and much more. If you wanted to travel a little further, Milton Keynes also holds many things to do. Xcape is full of activities such as indoor skiing and snowboarding. 

Things to do, things not to do

On your arrival make sure to bring a passport or some form or identification. Make sure you wear warm clothing if in winter as some sessions will mean you leaving and having to travel to another place. Always be conscientious and on time. Make sure you always offer to help with setting up the room etc. Using your initiative comes in useful when completing this placement.  Taking pictures of the children is not possible, however feel free to take pictures of the rooms when they are empty and the surrounding grounds. 

Useful Contacts

Shefford Lower School, School Lane, Shefford, Beds SG17 5XA

Tel:  01462 615115     Mob:    07504 932576

Before you go

Research the children's centre and find out the different sessions they do so that on your arrival you can tell the co ordinator what interests you the most in order to really gain a useful experience from placement.