Fordwater School, Chichester

URN: 126163 • Chichester PO19 6PP

Overview

Name
Fordwater School, Chichester
URN
126163
Type
Community special school
Phase
Not applicable
Status
Open
Gender
Mixed
Religious
Does not apply
Admissions
Not applicable
Trust
Private
No
Ofsted rating
Good
Ranking score
56.0 / 100
School thumbnail

Leadership & Contact

Headteacher
Sophie Clarke (since 2025) , Headteacher
Telephone
01243782475
Website
Visit
Address
Summersdale Road, Chichester PO19 6PP

Summary

Fordwater School, located in Chichester, West Sussex, is a community special school catering to pupils aged 2 to 19 with severe and complex learning needs. The school operates across two sites, including a satellite provision for older students, and offers a personalised curriculum designed to meet the individual needs of each pupil. With a commitment to high educational standards, the school employs a dedicated team of teachers and Special Support Assistants, ensuring that each child receives tailored support throughout their educational journey.

The school prioritises positive relationships among staff and pupils, fostering an environment of "relentless positivity." Facilities include a hydrotherapy pool, multi-sensory rooms, and outdoor playgrounds, all aimed at enhancing the learning experience. A multidisciplinary approach is adopted, with support from Speech and Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists, and a full-time School Nurse, ensuring comprehensive care for all students.

Fordwater School actively engages with the local community, encouraging pupils to participate in charitable work and local events. This involvement not only enriches the students' educational experience but also helps them develop a sense of responsibility and connection to their community.

Key details

LA
West Sussex
Age range
2 - 19
Boarders
No boarders
Sixth form
Has a sixth form
Trust
Capacity
154
Pupils
193
Boys
130
Girls
63
FSM %
36.60
Open date
Close date
Last Ofsted
2023-07-04
Next inspection
Data snapshot
2025-07-14
County
West Sussex

Trends

DatePupilsBoysGirlsCapacityFSM%
2025-07-14 193 130 63 154 36.60
2024-09-11 171 119 52 154 40.30
2023-09-11 140 95 45 154 38.70
2022-09-11 140 95 45 38.70
2021-09-11 136 95 41 39.60
2020-09-11 135 94 41 33.30

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