Harlow Fields School and College

About Harlow Fields School and College

We are a warm, inclusive and aspirational special school and college for children and young people aged 3 to 19 with a range of complex needs, including severe learning difficulties, autism and physical or sensory needs.

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Key Facts

Head/Principal Kathleen M Faherty

Rating Breakdown

Based on published reviews

Safety & Security 4.3

Teaching Quality 4.3

Communication 4.7

Student Wellbeing 4.7

Facilities 4.3

Parent Survey

Official Ofsted Parent View data • 49 responses • 27.7% response rate

View on Ofsted

My child is happy at this school

57.2% positive 36.8% negative

My child feels safe at this school

53.1% positive 32.7% negative

The school makes sure its pupils are well behaved

53.1% positive 36.7% negative

The school has high expectations for my child

38.8% positive 49% negative

My child does well at this school

49% positive 42.9% negative

I would recommend this school to another parent

Data from Ofsted Parent View as of September 2025. Based on 49 parent responses to the official Ofsted survey.

School Workforce

Teacher and staff information • 2024-2025

Note: These figures are estimated based on national averages. Actual school-level data not yet available.

20.0:1

Pupil-Teacher Ratio

Good

8.9

Teachers (FTE)

Estimated workforce data based on GIAS enrollment and national average ratios. Academic year 2024-2025.

Secondary School Results (Key Stage 4)

Exam performance data • 2023-2024

Note: Progress 8 scores are not available for 2024-25 and 2025-26 academic years due to COVID-19 impact on prior attainment data.

Additional Information

7 pupils in cohort

Data from DfE Performance Tables for academic year 2023-2024. Published January 2024. View full performance tables

Reviews 4

K

Karl B Unconfirmed

Parent Feb 15, 2023

5.0

"A School That Truly Cares"

I've been impressed by the school's commitment to inclusivity and the 'Working Together to Succeed' ethos. My child has made great progress, and the staff are always available to answer questions and offer support.

Safety & Wellbeing 4/5

Teaching & Learning 4/5

Communication 5/5

Mental & Emotional Wellbeing 5/5

Facilities 4/5

Helpful

D

David T Unconfirmed

Parent Nov 1, 2022

4.0

"Some Hiccups, But Generally Positive"

While Harlow Fields has its strengths, we've encountered some communication issues with the staff. However, my child has settled in well, and the facilities are impressive. I'm hoping that the school will address our concerns and continue to improve.

Safety & Wellbeing 4/5

Teaching & Learning 4/5

Communication 4/5

Mental & Emotional Wellbeing 3/5

Facilities 4/5

Helpful

E

Emily W Unconfirmed

Parent Sep 1, 2022

5.0

"A Home Away from Home"

I'm so grateful to have found Harlow Fields for my child. The facilities are top-notch, especially the new sixth form area - it's like a little university within the school. The staff are incredibly supportive and caring, and my child has thrived since joining.

Safety & Wellbeing 5/5

Teaching & Learning 5/5

Communication 5/5

Mental & Emotional Wellbeing 5/5

Facilities 5/5

Helpful

L

Leah S Unconfirmed

Parent Jun 1, 2022

4.0

"A Wonderful Experience"

I have fond memories of my child's time at Harlow Fields. The school's PMLD curriculum was tailored to meet their individual needs, and the staff were always willing to go the extra mile. Although my child has moved on to further education, I remain grateful for the foundation they received here.

Safety & Wellbeing 4/5

Teaching & Learning 4/5

Communication 4/5

Mental & Emotional Wellbeing 4/5

Facilities 4/5

Helpful