Welcome to Harlow Fields School and College

Working together to succeed

 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. Our dedicated staff work closely with families, professionals and the wider community to ensure every pupil receives the support and opportunities they need to thrive.

 At Harlow Fields, we believe that every child and young person deserves the very best start in life. Our vision—Working together to succeed—is embedded in all that we do. Whether it's in the classroom, through therapy, out in the community or at home, we know that true progress happens when we work in partnership.

 Our curriculum is broad, engaging and carefully personalised to meet individual needs, with a focus on communication, independence, wellbeing, and preparing for life beyond school. We celebrate every achievement, no matter how big or small, and we are proud of the progress our students make every day.

 A Place Where Everyone Belongs

We are committed to creating a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment where pupils feel valued, respected and confident to express themselves. From the moment you walk through our doors, we hope you’ll feel the warmth, energy and passion that makes Harlow Fields such a special place to be.

Visits Are Warmly Welcomed

Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions a family can make. We warmly welcome visits from prospective parents, carers and professionals. Seeing our school in action is the best way to get a feel for our ethos, our pupils and the fantastic work of our staff team.

 

To book a visit, please complete our online form here:  School Tours - Form

We look forward to meeting you soon.

 

 

Meet Our Headteacher: Kathleen M Faherty 

Hello and welcome! I am truly honoured to serve as the Headteacher of Harlow Fields School and College. With over 24 years of experience in education, I feel incredibly privileged to have taught and supported many wonderful children across all phases and abilities. As a mother with a child with additional needs, I understand all too well how important education is and the necessity of advocating for your child. This personal experience fuels my passion for creating an inclusive environment where every pupil can thrive.

I love Harlow Fields; it is a special place that fosters growth, learning, and community. The unique atmosphere here is built on mutual respect, understanding, and collaboration. Our dedicated staff work tirelessly to ensure that each pupil feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential.

In my approach to education, I embrace the ‘Three C’s’:

  1. Child-Centred: I prioritise the needs and well-being of each pupil, ensuring they feel valued and supported. Every decision we make is rooted in what is best for our pupils, recognising their individual strengths and challenges.

  2. Conscientious: I strive to be diligent and thoughtful in everything we do, aiming for excellence in our practises. Continuous improvement is at the heart of our mission, and I encourage our staff to reflect and adapt their teaching methods to meet the evolving needs of our pupils.

  3. Community-Focused: I believe in working collaboratively with families, staff, and the wider community to create a strong support network for our pupils. Engaging with parents and local organisations is essential in building a holistic approach to education that benefits all.

I have specific experience working with pupils with autism and those facing mental health challenges. Additionally, I am qualified to deliver therapeutic meditations through The British School of Meditation, which I believe can be a valuable tool in promoting emotional well-being among our pupils.

Outside of my professional life, I cherish spending quality time with my family, as they are my greatest source of inspiration. I also have a passion for photography, which allows me to capture the beauty of everyday moments. Furthermore, I am actively involved with a local Essex charity, participating in fundraising efforts to support our community and give back to those in need.

At Harlow Fields, we warmly welcome prospective families, employees, and anyone interested in visiting our school. Our doors are always open, and we would love to share our vision and values with you. Please feel free to reach out; we’d love to meet you and show you why Harlow Fields is such a special place!