FAIRLIGHT PRIMARY AND NURSERY SCHOOL
STAFF ORGANISATION 2026-2027
Our Amazing Staff Team
At Fairlight Primary and Nursery School, we are incredibly proud of our staff. They are the heart of our school and the reason why Fairlight is such a special place to learn, grow and thrive.
Our team is made up of talented, dedicated and experienced professionals who go above and beyond every day for the children and families we serve. From Nursery through to Year 6, every member of staff shares a commitment to providing the very best education, care and support for our pupils.
What makes Fairlight special is not just the expertise of our teachers, but the warmth, kindness and passion they bring to their work every day. Our staff know children as individuals, celebrate their successes, nurture their confidence and help them overcome challenges. We believe that strong relationships sit at the heart of great education and our team works tirelessly to ensure every child feels safe, valued and inspired to succeed.
This commitment was recognised by Ofsted during its most recent inspection.
Inspectors noted that:
"Adults understand pupils' academic and emotional needs deeply. Each pupil is understood and celebrated."
Inspectors were also highly positive about the quality of teaching across the school, stating:
"Teachers understand pupils' needs well and make sure they get the right support."
"Teachers use assessment skilfully, checking systematically for understanding, addressing misconceptions and challenging pupils to explain their thinking."
The strength of our staff team extends beyond the classroom. We are a collaborative school where colleagues support one another, share expertise and continually strive to improve. Our teachers, teaching assistants, support staff, office team, site team and leaders all play a vital role in creating the vibrant learning community that makes Fairlight unique.
Perhaps the greatest endorsement came from Ofsted's comments about the staff team itself:
"Staff are overwhelmingly proud to be part of this vibrant, diverse and happy school."
We are fortunate to have such a talented group of professionals working together with a shared vision:
Every Individual Child Achieves.
Their dedication, skill and care make a lasting difference to the lives of our children and families every single day.
At Fairlight Primary and Nursery School, we believe in strong leadership, teamwork and collaboration.
Our staffing structure ensures that every phase of the school is well supported, with experienced leaders overseeing teaching, learning, inclusion and curriculum development across all year groups.
Senior Leadership Team
Headteacher
- Damien Jordan
Assistant Headteachers
- Michelle May
- Paul Knight
- Shereen Avard
Curriculum Leadership
Literacy Leader (TLR)
- Caroline Parker
Numeracy Leader (TLR)
- Nicola Halfhead
Phase Leadership Team
Our phase leaders work closely with staff, pupils and families to ensure excellent teaching, learning and pastoral support throughout the school.
Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
- Jamie-Rose Tucker
Key Stage 1 (Years 1–2)
- Martina Joller
Lower Key Stage 2 (Years 3–4)
- Rebecca Blankson
Upper Key Stage 2 (Years 5–6)
- Michelle Marchant
Early Years Foundation Stage
Nursery – Penguins
- Gem
- Cath
Reception – Jellyfish
- Jamie-Rose Tucker
Reception – Seals
- Shauna Stewart
Key Stage 1
Year 1 – Dolphins
- Kerrie Evans
Year 1 – Whales
- Maria Rodrigues
Year 2 – Starfish
- Andy Starks
Year 2 – Seahorses
- Martina Joller
Lower Key Stage 2
Year 3 – Marlin
- Anna Medvedovsky
Year 3 – Manatee
- Fran Jeffries
Year 4 – Puffin
- Rebecca Blankson
Year 4 – Pelican
- Eve Harris
Upper Key Stage 2
Year 5 – Stingray
- Lee Kenneally
Year 5 – Manta Ray
- Nicola Halfhead
Year 6 – Sharks
- Layo Pat-Olumba
Year 6 – Octopus
- Michelle Marchant
Our team is committed to ensuring that every child achieves their full potential. Through strong leadership, expert teaching and a shared commitment to inclusion, aspiration and excellence, we work together to provide the very best education and support for all pupils at Fairlight Primary and Nursery School.
The Rest of the Team
Site Manager: Chris Cook
Office Team: Donna Kelly, Alice Woodland, Juliana Ashworth, Carly Bunker, Rachel Havers
Below are the relevant contacts for some of the most common queries:
- Donna Kelly - Office Manager
- Juliana Ashworth - Attendance and Safeguarding Officer
- Carly Bunker - Office Administrator - Front of House, Admissions and Communications
- Alice Woodland - Finance Officer - Finance, Trips and Clubs, Residentials and Parent Pay
- Rachel Havers - Volunteer Co-ordinator
To contact the Office Team or Site Manager please go to https://www.fairlight.brighton-hove.sch.uk/school-office/contact
