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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.

 

Our greatest asset is our people. Fairlight's staff team combines experience, expertise, compassion and ambition to ensure that every child receives the outstanding education they deserve.

 

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
Teaching Staff

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

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
 
Working Together for Every Child

 

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