Headteacher’s Welcome
Welcome to Portfield School
We provide specialist autism education for students aged 4-19.
All our students have an Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP) and a diagnosis of autism.
At Portfield School, students learn to build the skills, understanding and information they need to enable them to develop independence and flourish, not just in childhood but into adulthood and for the rest of their lives. Our students look forward to being well-prepared for college, work placements, apprenticeships and independent / supported living.
Diversity is celebrated in our school community, and every student is valued as an individual with unique strengths and interests. Our skilled team of teachers, therapists, teaching assistants and creative arts specialists demonstrate positive working methods and a flexible, solution-focused approach to provide a truly holistic education for every student.
We provide a high-quality, age and developmentally-appropriate curriculum that is therapeutically led and student-centred. Communication is at the heart of our curriculum. We follow an inclusive communication approach which facilitates the development and use of communication in all its forms, providing opportunities for students to participate in every area of school life. Our students are supported to develop their confidence in their ability to make choices and decisions to shape their own learning.
Students within the school are grouped according to social and learning needs, and therefore, classes comprise mixed-aged groups. This supports students to learn to navigate the social world and to make and maintain friendships.
Vibrant and unique facilities, including a state-of-the-art Sixth Form building, swimming pool and Forest School, as well as a range of community partnerships and creative specialists in residence, provide a rich and creative school life for every child and young person.
We are very proud of our school community and welcome visits to the site. If you have any queries or wish to arrange a visit to the school, please get in touch with the school office.
Anna Hewitt, Headteacher
Key information
Spring Term 2026: Monday 5th January 2026 - Friday 27th March 2026
- INSET Day – 13th February 2026
- Spring Half Term: Monday 16th February 2026 - Friday 20th February 2026
- Easter Holiday: Monday 30th March 2026 - Friday 10th April 2026
- Good Friday: Friday 3rd April 2026
- Easter Monday: Monday 6th April 2026
Summer Term 2026: Monday 13th April 2026 - Friday 31st July 2026
- Whole School Back: Monday 13th April 2026
- May Day Bank Holiday: Monday 4th May 2026
- Spring Bank Holiday: Monday 25th May 2026
- Summer Half Term: Monday 25th May 2026 - Friday 5th June 2026
- INSET Days: 5th June and 31st July 2026
Contact Name: Anna Hewitt
Address: Portfield School, Parley Lane, Christchurch, BH23 6BP.
You can call us on: 01202 573808 from 7:30 am to 5:00 pm
Compulsory School Hours: 09:00 - 15:00 = (9-3, 5 days a week = 30 hours)
You can also arrange a visit with us by clicking on the contact us section in the dropdown menu.
To be eligible for a place at Portfield School children require a diagnosis of autism and an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) produced by a local authority. All places at Portfield School are commissioned by the local authority where the child is resident.
Any approach to apply for a place should be discussed with your local authority case worker.
School Life
A specialist autism school supporting autistic students from the ages of 4 to 19 with a bespoke education package, tailored to each student's needs and interests.
Preparation for Adulthood
Independence is promoted in every area of school life enabling every student to be well prepared for the next stage of life.
Adult Support
Our adult services help people to explore their potential, make choices, and ultimately make a successful transition from childhood into adulthood.
Therapy Provision
Our highly skilled and qualified therapists develop individual therapy packages which enhance each child’s development.
