Fairfield School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 23 June 2026

Pupils have a true sense of belonging at Fairfield. They enjoy arriving at school and entering into a learning environment of caring, ambition and aspiration. Staff build excellent relationships with pupils. Pupils know that staff are there to help them whenever they need it. Pupils appreciate this greatly. Staff support them expertly to understand themselves and the world around them. Staff have very high expectations of what pupils can do and what they could achieve in the future. Pupils arrive with complex barriers linked to communication needs and health conditions. Where barriers can be addressed by the school and regular attendance is achievable, pupils attend very well. Staff work effectively with families and other agencies to support pupils to attend more regularly, which very often results in significant improvements. Pupils take part in a wide range of experiences beyond lessons, including music, sport, trips and visits to places in the community. These experiences help pupils to build their confidence, friendships and independence. Pupils behave well and greatly enjoy their learning. When they struggle, pupils are helped to understand themselves and communicate their needs. Students in the post-16 provision are a brilliant example of kindness reflecting the time invested by leaders and staff. Students contribute greatly to the culture of togetherness in school. They help around school, supporting younger pupils and working alongside staff to enhance the environment. Pupils throughout school, achieve very highly through the dedicated work of leaders and staff. Pupils' needs, talents and interests are thoroughly understood by staff. Pupils, including the school council members, know that their voice is important. Overall, pupils thrive in all aspects of their development. Their great progress is secured through fruitful experiences in and out of school. As a result, they are very well prepared when it comes to moving onto the next stage of education or employment.

What the school should improve

• Leaders and those responsible for governance should ensure continued refinement to their curriculum implementation to secure a transformational impact on all pupils.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)