Fairmead School, Yeovil

In its own words: "Our catchment area covers South Somerset and looks something similar to this; Our school has been a cornerstone of special education in the region for over six decades. Established in 1964, we have consistently evolved to meet the needs of students with moderate learning difficulties and children with Autism."

From the headteacher's welcome: "Fairmead School is situated on the outskirts of Yeovil in the county of Somerset. It has a wide catchment area across south Somerset and into Dorset, welcoming young people between the ages of four and sixteen. The school currently has 151 young people on roll, and caters for autistic young people and young people with moderate learning difficulties."

Coming up: an open day on Monday 30 November 2026, an open day on Monday 14 December 2026, an open day on Monday 25 January 2027 and an open day on Monday 22 February 2027. Check the school's website before you go, as dates can change.

The nearest other special schools to Fairmead School are Fiveways Special School (0.8 miles, Outstanding); Cambian Lufton College (2.7 miles, Good); Chilton Bridge School (4.1 miles, Good); and Hill View School (4.8 miles).

Of the 18 pupils who finished Year 11 in 2023/24, 83% stayed in education or training for at least two terms, including 78% to a further education college.

44.7% of pupils are eligible for free school meals, and 4.6% speak English as an additional language, according to the 2026 school census.

Almost every pupil at Fairmead School has an education, health and care plan (152 of 152 in 2026). The most common need among them is autism.

Fairmead School provides for pupils with autism and moderate learning difficulties.

The nearest railway station is Yeovil Pen Mill Rail Station, about 1.1 miles away in a straight line.

14 bus stops are within a five-minute walk; the closest is Tower Road (w-bound), 130 metres away.

Measured by the 2025 English Indices of Deprivation, the neighbourhood Fairmead School stands in is among the 10% least deprived neighbourhoods in England. This describes where the school is, not where its pupils live.

In August 2026, police recorded 169 crimes within a mile of the school, most often violence and sexual offences, shoplifting and criminal damage and arson. That is well above the typical figure around schools in Somerset (22), as is usual near a town centre.

In 2024/25, Fairmead School issued 12 suspensions, 8 for every 100 pupils, and no permanent exclusions.