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.
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Recommended spaces
Spaces perfect for your school formal
Hand-picked for the size and feel of a typical school formal. Every space includes tables, chairs, cleaning and an event contact on the day.
Our pick for school formalThe John Farragher Woolshed
Best for: dance floor for 200
Our pick for school formalThe Pavilion
Best for: seated formal, 200
Our pick for school formalAlfresco 1 (Riverside)
Best for: arrivals and photos

The Alfresco
150 seated, 200 standing

The Farmhouse
75 seated, 100 standing

The Stables
50 seated, 75 standing

The Shearing Shed
50 seated, 75 standing

The Wool Room
50 seated, 75 standing

Alfresco 2 (Orchard)
75 seated, 100 standing

The Cosy Corner
75 seated, 100 standing

The VIP Suite
8 seated, 8 standing

Semi-Private Rooms
12 seated, 12 standing
No space fits that number exactly. Tell us your guest count below and the events team will suggest the best fit.
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.
Enquire now
Tell us the date and numbers for your school formal. Replies within 1 business day, no deposit to enquire.
Enquiry received. Thanks, our events team will be in touch within 1 business day. Fully licensed venue. No outside alcohol.
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Good to know
School FormalFAQs
The questions we get asked most about hosting school formals at The Orchard.
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.
School Formal at The Orchard





