5.0 Google Reviews(opens Google)

School formals

A barn with a stage, a dance floor and lighting, a red-carpet arrival on the lawn and a seated dinner for up to 200, run by a team that has done this before with under-18s.

Recent Google reviews

★★★★★
We had our work end of year party in the Pavilion and could not recommend the Orchard enough. The team was professional and on the ball, and there were many package options to suit. It was by far the best experience I've had with a venue.
Divinia JeanEnd of year party · Pavilion
★★★★★
An awesome venue for both a formal event or a chill afternoon.
Kylie XerriFormal event
★★★★★
We celebrated our daughter's 16th birthday recently at The Orchard, we had a fantastic day, the food, the service, the atmosphere, everything was amazing. I definitely recommend this venue for any event!
Lisa Harrison16th birthday
★★★★★
We celebrated our daughter's Christening at the Pavilion, and it was so beautiful. Our guests couldn't stop talking about the venue, the food, the service. The park was a huge hit with the kids. Natalie was a dream to work with.
Anastasia IlichChristening · Pavilion
★★★★★
We hosted a Brunch for Good charity event with 100 guests. Natalie is a true professional and it all ran so smoothly with delicious food. The wait staff were amazing and service gold class. We are so lucky to have such a quality venue locally.
Anne PalmerCharity event
★★★★★
Organising an event for a large group of 50 people can be stressful, especially on short notice, but the team handled everything seamlessly. The Stables was the perfect space. Bakery Brothers created a stunning custom gluten-free cake with only a few days' notice.
Kaytee JohnstonePrivate party · Stables

Guest gallery

Real celebrations at The Orchard

See the guest gallery
  • The Pavilion set for a reception with long tables, white chairs, red roses and a heart backdrop at The Orchard Penrith

Check your date with the events team

  • A dedicated event manager from day one
  • Licensed bar in every space. No outside alcohol.
★★★★★
We had our work end of year party in the Pavilion and could not recommend the Orchard enough. The team was professional and on the ball, and there were many package options to suit. It was by far the best experience I've had with a venue.
Divinia JeanEnd of year party · Pavilion

Enquire now

Tell us the date and numbers for your school formal. Replies within 1 business day, no deposit to enquire.

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Licensed bar

Enquiry received. Thanks, our events team will be in touch within 1 business day. Fully licensed venue. No outside alcohol.

Good to know

School FormalFAQs

The questions we get asked most about hosting school formals at The Orchard.

Check dates and get a quote

How much does a school formal cost per student?

We tailor every quote to your guest count, menu and date rather than publish set prices. Send an enquiry and you’ll have a personalised quote within one business day.

How do you manage alcohol?

The bar is closed for the event, mocktails are served, licensed security is on the door and bags are checked on arrival.

Is there a photo area?

Riverside lawn and orchard at golden hour, plus a media wall at The Woolshed entrance.

Can parents drop off and pick up easily?

A dedicated drop-off loop at the entrance with 200+ parking spots for the arrivals crowd.

Do you cater for year 6 farewells?

Yes, in the Pavilion or Stables with a shorter format and kids’ menu.

Why The Orchard

Celebrate your school formalat The Orchard

Formals at The Orchard take The Woolshed: a stage with lighting, a dance floor, round tables for up to 200 and its own entrance for the red-carpet arrival. Photos happen on the riverside lawn at golden hour before dinner.

We run alcohol-free events with mocktail bars, licensed security, a dedicated coordinator for the school and a set 3-course menu from Freddy’s kitchen at a per-student price. Teachers’ tables and a quiet room are included.