Welcome to Combe Pafford School

It is my great privilege to serve as Headteacher of Combe Pafford School. Our school is a vibrant, nurturing, and inclusive community where children and young people feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. We are deeply committed to lifelong learning and every student is encouraged and supported to achieve their very best.

At Combe Pafford, we offer a rich blend of academic and vocational learning. Each student follows a pathway tailored to their needs, strengths and aspirations; enabling them to grow in confidence, gain meaningful qualifications, and leave us prepared for the next stage in their lives. I am incredibly fortunate to be supported by a skilled and dedicated staff team and governing body who share a strong commitment to providing exceptional education for all our young people.

Who We Support

Combe Pafford School provides a unique educational experience for students aged 8–19 (Years 4–13) with:

• Moderate Learning Difficulties
• Physical difficulties
• Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC)
• Complex needs

We aim to ensure every student receives high-quality teaching and an educational journey that best suits their individual profile. Our approach blends strong academic teaching with an inspiring vocational curriculum, which extends into our Post-16 provision. From practical courses to real-world work experience, our pathways help students build skills, independence, and confidence for their future.

Personal Development and Our School Values

Alongside our academic and vocational offer, we place a strong emphasis on personal development. Our aim is to equip every student with the life skills and confidence needed to live as independently as possible in the wider world. This includes developing communication, social understanding, problem-solving, resilience, and self-advocacy — all essential for adulthood.

Our curriculum is underpinned by our three core values:

• Compassion
• Resilience
• Respect

These values shape our culture, guide our expectations and influence every aspect of school life. They help our students develop into confident, caring and capable young adults ready to take their next steps.

Our 2026 Designation Change

From September 2026, Combe Pafford School will move to a formal designation for Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC). As part of this change, all new starters will require a formal ASC diagnosis to be considered for a place.

This development strengthens our commitment to providing specialist, high-quality support for autistic learners and ensures our provision continues to meet the needs of the students we serve.

Visit Us

While we hope our website gives you a helpful insight into our school, the best way to truly understand our ethos and see our community in action is to come and visit us. We warmly welcome families, professionals and prospective students to experience our unique culture firsthand.

Please get in touch to arrange a visit — we look forward to meeting you.

Sally Banfield
Headteacher

 

Last updated: 24^th March 2026.