Fairfield High School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 8 February 2023

Pupils are happy and safe. They feel that that staff are caring and respectful and ambitious for their futures. Parents say this too. In response to Ofsted's survey, Ofsted Parent View, parents typically described it as a nurturing school that prepares pupils to be good citizens. Leaders have high expectations of pupils' behaviour and conduct. As a result, the school has a calm and purposeful atmosphere. Staff are quick to challenge any form of disrespectful behaviour or bullying. Pupils and parents appreciate this and have confidence in leaders to resolve any issues. Pupils feel that they have a voice in the school. They enjoy opportunities to be leaders themselves. For example, pupils say they want to help build their peers' awareness of how to prevent, and keep safe from, harmful sexual behaviour. Leaders listen to pupils' ideas and act together to tackle this important issue. Pupils enjoy a wide range of clubs and activities that develop their talents and interests. For instance, pupils speak with enthusiasm about drama productions, languages clubs and equalities societies. Leaders ensure that these extra-curricular opportunities are open to all pupils.

What the school should improve

• The curriculum for pupils in the early stages of learning to read is not effective enough. As a result, some pupils do not gain a strong enough foundation in reading to support their learning in other subjects. Leaders should ensure that the reading curriculum supports all pupils to read confidently and fluently.

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