There’s a magic at Orpheus that you won’t find anywhere else
Step through our doors and you’ll feel it immediately – in the fearless voice of a student on stage, in the proud smile of a parent watching their child becoming an adult and defying expectations, in the laughter that echoes through corridors, that have many times seen a ‘no’ become a triumphant ‘yes’.
This magic happens when young disabled adults, who’ve spent their lives being told what they can’t do – finally discover what they can. It happens when chance meets opportunity, when talent meets belief, when potential that society overlooks finally gets its moment to shine.
Our History
Founded in 1998 by musician and entertainer Sir Richard Stilgoe, Orpheus was created with a simple but powerful belief: that creativity, opportunity and belief can transform lives. From our home in Godstone, Surrey, we support young people aged 18–25 with physical and/or learning disabilities to discover their strengths, develop new skills and challenge expectations – their own and those of society.
Our Vision and Mission
Our Vision is of an inclusive world where disabled young people, with a passion for the arts and desire to live and work independently, can achieve their aspirations.
Our Mission is to inspire and empower young disabled students, to live fulfilling and independent lives.
How we do it
At Orpheus, we put young people at the centre of everything we do. Many of our students arrive having spent much of their lives being told what they can’t do. Here, they are encouraged to explore what is possible. Through music, dance, drama, film and visual arts, alongside essential life and independence skills, students grow in confidence, resilience and self belief. Staff, Students, Trustees and Volunteers work together in line with our values.
Every time I did something it improved my skills. I would say being at Orpheus and the help with my career was fabulous!Sam – Orpheus Alumnus
Our curriculum is highly personalised and holistic. Alongside high quality arts training, students develop everyday skills such as communication, budgeting, cookery, employability and wellbeing. We offer accredited qualifications as well as bespoke programmes designed around individual aspirations and goals. Learning at Orpheus is practical, creative and rooted in real world outcomes.
Find out more about Our College here.
We are both a day and residential college, offering supported housing and pathways into more independent living. Our ambition extends beyond education: we prepare young people for life after Orpheus, whether that means employment, further study, creative careers, volunteering or independent living in the community.
Find out more about Our Impact here
Meet the Team
The staff at Orpheus are highly professional, determined and dedicated to changing the lives of young disabled people. They bring a wealth of experience and ideas to help shape the organisation.
Our Strategy, Policies & Publications
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
How to find us
If you’d like to visit, attend one of our events, book a tour, or contact us to find out more information
