FAIRFAX SCHOOL in West Midlands, Sutton Coldfield

Education Centre Information: Fairfax School:

Establishment Type:Foundation School
Phase of Education: Secondary
Status: Closed
Local Authority: Birmingham
Reason Establishment Closed: Academy Converter
Establishment Close Date: 30/06/2011
Boarders: No Boarders
Sixth Form: Has a sixth form
Urban/Rural Description: Urban > 10k - less sparse
Special Classes: No Special Classes
Religious Character: None
Total Pupils: 1381
Number of boys: 671
Number of girls: 710
Admissions: Comprehensive
Age Range: 11-18
Gender: Mixed
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Special Educational Needs:

SEN Priority 1:PD - Physical Disability

Background:

Fairfax School opened as a Warwickshire High School in 1959 and quickly established a reputation for providing a sound academic education. The school is set in extensive grounds on the edge of Sutton Coldfield. Facilities are excellent. Recent building developments have included a new purpose-built technology block, a drama studio, a music suite and a seven classroom block for teaching of modern foreign languages. The sixth form centre has been extended and refurbished, and two additional science laboratories have been added to the main school building. Sporting facilities have been improved through the development of an indoor heated swimming pool, a cricket wicket and practice outdoor nets as well as its sports hall. The curriculum is designed to provide all students with a broad, balanced education relevant to their needs both now and in the future. It is challenging and enjoyable. English, mathematics, science, technology, history, geography, art, music, drama, modern languages and physical education is available to everyone. Religious studies are taught to all, and its personal and social development programme provides social, moral and health education appropriate to the age of the student. Academic standards are high, reflecting both expectations and the hard work of students, parents and staff. Facilities include dedicated computer rooms, as well as information technology facilities in the library and most subject departments. Drama plays a significant part in the curriculum. All students follow drama courses in the lower school and GCSE. The school has a sports hall, a gymnasium, an indoor, heated swimming pool, and tennis/netball courts, cricket nets and extensive, well maintained, playing fields. Large numbers of students are involved in outdoor pursuits organised by staff at various centre throughout the school year. The school has long-standing links including regular exchanges with schools in Rambervilliers, France and Frankfurt, Germany. The school has extensive international links including a Comenius project on migration and recent and planned world challenge expeditions to Malaysia, Costa Rica and Namibia. The school has very positive ethos and a well-founded confidence. This is a fully inclusive school.