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Curriculum American Curriculum, Advanced Placement (AP), IB (DP)
Taught languages Spanish
Typical class size 5
Strengths Sport, Visual and Creative Arts, Languages
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Community and Service
Stages Preschool, Early Years, Primary School, Middle School, High School
Introduction
Fairfield Academy is a private, independent international school serving Pre-K through 12th grade in Montego Bay, Jamaica. The institution aspires to build a kinder and more sustainable tomorrow by empowering students to become courageous and compassionate global citizens.
Lot 3 & 4A, Spring Garden, Montego Bay, St. James, Jamaica
The Essentials
Fairfield Academy has 115 pupils, typical class sizes of 5, instruction in English.
Location
Montego Bay, St. James, Jamaica. Campus address: Lot 3 & 4A, Spring Garden, Montego Bay, Jamaica.
Stages
Early Years Programme (Ages 2-4); Prep School (Grades K-6); Middle School (Grades 7-9); High School Years (Grades 10-12). Pre-Kindergarten to 12th grade overall.
Type
private, independent, coed international school
Pupil Nationality Mix
Two-thirds of students are Jamaican; about one-third are from seven other cultures.
Bus service
Transportation to/from school is not provided.
Fees
Annual tuition at Fairfield Academy ranges from USD 11,400 for 2026/27.
Application and one-time fees - Application fee: USD 160, due at the time of application. - Enrollment (one-time) fee for each new student upon acceptance: USD 1,500, due at the time of official acceptance by the Head Principal. - Futures fee (capital development fund) due upon official acceptance: USD 300. - Deposits for incoming Kindergarten and Grade 7: a deposit equal to 30% of the first (August) payment is required for accepted Kindergarten and Grade 7 students by July 1; this deposit is offset against the August invoice.
Tuition fees by school year (annual and per-term) - High School (Grades 7–12): Annual tuition USD 11,400. When paid termly the published term amount is USD 4,000 (three-term billing is standard). - Prep School (Kindergarten – Grade 6): Annual tuition JMD 940,500; termly tuition JMD 330,000 (three-term billing). Prep students are required to purchase their own books; book costs are not included in the tuition listed for Prep.
Billing schedule and payment terms - Billing cycle: Tuition may be paid in one annual payment or in three termly payments. Parents are asked to select a payment option; if none is selected tuition will be invoiced on the standard three-term schedule. - Standard tuition due dates (example schedule shown): August 1, January 1, and April 1. Invoices for annual payments are due and payable in full on or before the annual due date specified on the invoice (annual-payment discount applies if paid by the stated early-payment date). - Early-payment discount: 5% discount applied if annual tuition is paid in full by the published early-payment date. - Sibling discounts: High School: 10% discount for the second and subsequent children attending High at the same time. Prep: 10% discount for the third and subsequent children attending Prep at the same time. - Late payment penalty: Payments received 10 working days after the due date incur a late-payment fee of USD 200 applied to outstanding balances; failure to clear outstanding balances and penalties by the first day of school may result in the student being denied attendance and withholding of reports/transcripts/results until payment is made. - Transferring/withdrawal notice and fees: A full term's written notice is required to withdraw a student; if a full term's notice is not given, a full term's fee is due and payable in lieu of notice. Fees are payable for the whole term in which enrolment is terminated unless the Head Principal determines fair notice was given or impractical (fair notice is deemed to be one semester).
Boarding fees - Boarding: Not applicable — there are no boarding fees listed and no active boarding programme or boarding fee schedule provided. Day-school tuition and incidental-charge arrangements apply.
Other costs and incidental charges - Items explicitly excluded from tuition: Lunch; uniforms; personal laptops and repairs; transportation to/from school; personal school supplies. Prep students must purchase their own books (these are not covered by Prep tuition). - Additional charges that may be billed separately as required: textbooks for Prep, uniforms, extracurricular activities, school trips, sports participation fees, external examination fees, after-school care, and other incidental items. Invoices for these charges are due on receipt.
Refunds and deposits - Deposit treatment: Accepted Kindergarten and Grade 7 deposits (30% of the first payment) are applied toward the August invoice. If the deposit is not received by the stated deadline the place is not considered confirmed and may be offered to another student. - Refunds on tuition: No automatic pro-rata refunds are provided for mid-term withdrawal; fees are payable for the whole term in which enrolment is terminated except where the Head Principal determines fair notice was given or impractical. A full term's fee is due where adequate written notice (one term) is not given.
Fee payment options and instructions - Acceptable payment methods: (1) deposit at the bank in person, (2) online bank transfer, (3) credit card payment at the school (a 3% surcharge applies to credit-card payments). No other form of payment (including cash or cheque) will be accepted on the school campus for tuition payments. Proof of payment must be submitted to accounts@fairfieldacademyja.com as instructed on invoices. - Bank accounts: Separate bank accounts are used for Prep (JMD) and High School (USD) payments; parents must pay to the account specified on their invoice. Confirmation of payment must be submitted as directed on the invoice and to the Business Office email.
Summary note about the academic year covered by these figures - The fee figures and policies presented above are taken from the published tuition- and fee-policy materials available for the 2023–2024 academic-year cycle and the school's fee-billing documentation; no later academic-year (2025–26 or 2026–27) fee schedule was located in the available admissions and tuition policy materials. The amounts and rules above reflect the published values and policies in those materials.
Academics
Fairfield Academy teaches American Curriculum, Advanced Placement (AP), IB (DP) for students aged 2 to 18.
Curriculum
FIA grants an American high-school diploma. In the Middle Years (7th and 8th grades), students study language arts, visual and performing arts, sciences, mathematics, history, Spanish and physical education/health with an emphasis on good habits, values and connectedness to the world. In High School Years (9th–12th grades), courses are college-preparatory with electives, emphasizing independent learning, personal motivation and service. In 10th and 11th grades, students take PSAT/NMSQT examinations; in 11th and 12th grades, students take AP and SAT II examinations as appropriate. The middle-years curriculum is reviewed annually in line with FIA's accreditation and certification standards (NEASC and CIE). All students take seven classes each semester during a two-semester school year. Graduation requirements are determined by the year of entry into FIA.
Student Teacher Ratio
The school has a small teacher:student ratio of 1:5.
Higher Education Progression
College counseling begins in the 7th grade and continues through the 12th grade to help identify colleges and universities that match students' interests and goals, and to support the college application process. FIA graduates have been admitted to colleges around the world.
Gifted and Talented
AP track provides advanced coursework, and Advanced STEM programs (physics, biology, chemistry, robotics, earth science and oceanography) with labs offer opportunities for advanced learners.
Admissions
Admissions
Prep Admissions (PreKindergarten to 6th Grade) 1. Applications are accepted once a child is born and named. We maintain waiting lists, and families, after paying the application fee, will remain in touch each year to keep the application active. When admitted, the child and family are invited to a Campus Visit Day in the spring before the start of the school year. This provides an early introduction to FIA's community and routines.
Prep, Middle & High School Admissions 1. Step 1. Peruse all information, including FAQs, on the FIA site, or request information directly from the School Secretary. This helps families understand the admissions process and what to expect before applying. Being informed supports a smooth transition into FIA's programs. 2. Step 2. Complete the full application, using the forms downloaded online or provided by FIA. The USD 160 application fee must accompany the completed application. Submitting the application promptly helps ensure timely processing and placement. 3. Step 3. Be sure the appropriate school documentation (math and English teacher recommendations, and school reports from the last three terms) has been submitted. These documents are part of the review materials for consideration. Providing all required documents supports a complete review of the applicant. 4. Step 4. Once your materials have been received, schedule a personal interview on campus, which generally lasts between 30 and 60 minutes. The interview allows for discussion of the student's background and fit with FIA's community and values. This step helps the school and family assess alignment and expectations. 5. Step 5. Notification of the admissions decision will be sent in writing within a week of the interview. If a scholarship application has also been completed, it cannot be considered until these first five steps have been completed. A timely decision allows families to plan for the upcoming school year. 6. Step 6. Once the decision has been sent and the admissions offer has been accepted, the one-time enrollment fee of USD 1500 for the student to be officially enrolled, registered and scheduled into the new school year must be paid. This completes the enrollment obligations to secure placement. 7. Step 7. Testing and college process: Rising 7th graders applying to FIA are not required to take or present scores for the PEP. At the end of every semester, all FIA students in grades 7 to 12 sit for compulsory internal examinations. Freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors will be advised when and which SAT I, Advanced Placement, and PSAT examinations to take. FIA provides guidance as part of the college process and career planning.
Scholarships
Fairfield International Academy offers four types of scholarships based on financial need: Virtus Scholarship, Fair Chance Scholarship, Arts Scholarship, and Athletic Scholarship. All scholarships require evidence of financial need and are dependent on available sponsorship. Forms for scholarships can be accessed via the Financial Aid & Scholarships page and should be submitted to scholarship@fairfieldacademyja.com.
Waitlist
The school maintains waiting lists for admissions. After paying the application fee, families should stay in touch each year to keep the application active. When admitted, the student and family are invited to a Campus Visit Day in the spring before the start of the school year.
FAQs
Where is Fairfield Academy located and what is the campus setting like?
Fairfield Academy is a private, independent international school in Montego Bay, Jamaica, situated on the western shore of Montego Bay. The current campus sits on Lot 3 & 4A, Spring Garden, with a plan to develop a new 14-acre campus nearby featuring an athletic track and multipurpose field. The school uses a 1:1 technology program and offers a parent–student portal for communication.
What grades and age range does FIA serve, and what curriculum do they offer?
FIA serves Pre-K through Grade 12, with Early Years, Prep (K-6), Middle Years (7-8), and High School (9-12). It delivers an American curriculum with Advanced Placement and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, and grants an American high-school diploma for grades 9–12. The Middle Years program emphasizes language arts, sciences, mathematics, history, Spanish, and arts with a focus on healthy habits and global connectedness.
What is the tuition for High School and for Prep, and how is it billed?
High School tuition is USD 11,400 per year, and Prep tuition is JMD 940,500 per year. Tuition can be paid in one annual payment or in three termly payments, with due dates typically in August, January, and April; there is a 5% early-pay discount for full annual payment. There are also family discounts (10% for the second+ High School child; 10% for the third+ Prep child) and a USD 200 late-payment fee if payments are late.
What is the admissions process and what scholarships are available?
The admissions process includes submitting an application with a USD 160 fee, providing math/English recommendations and the last three terms of reports, and completing an on-campus interview. Admission decisions are sent in writing within a week of the interview, followed by a USD 1,500 enrollment fee and a USD 300 Futures/Capital Development Fund payment upon acceptance. The school offers four need-based scholarships (Virtus, Fair Chance, Arts, Athletic); applications require demonstrated financial need and sponsorship availability.
What are the key components of FIA's Middle Years and High School curricula, and what exams are offered?
In Middle Years (grades 7–8), students study language arts, sciences, mathematics, history, Spanish, and visual/performing arts, plus health/physical education. In High School (grades 9–12), courses are college-preparatory with electives and a focus on independent learning and service; PSAT/NMSQT is offered in grades 10–11, and AP and SAT II exams are available as appropriate. The middle-years program is reviewed annually under NEASC and CIE accreditation.
What about class sizes and college counseling?
FIA reports a small teacher–student ratio of about 1:5, supporting individualized attention. College counseling starts in grade 7 and continues through grade 12, helping students identify colleges and navigate admissions; graduates have been admitted to universities around the world.
What facilities exist on the current campus, and what are the plans for the new campus?
The current campus supports a full Physical Education program and spaces that promote health, nutrition, and emotional well-being, and it includes a swimming pool. The FIA Plan outlines a new 14-acre campus nearby with an athletic track and multipurpose field as part of the first facilities to be built. The school also maintains a 1:1 technology program with a student portal and digital learning tools.
What extracurricular facilities and programs exist at FIA?
A wide range of clubs and activities meet on campus, including Chess Club, Soccer Club, Yearbook, SCUBA Certification, Culinary Club, Technology and Robotics Club, the FIA Swim Team, Key Club, Model United Nations, and more. Community involvement includes partnerships with Kiwanis K‑Kids and Key Club, and events such as Sports Day and Graduation; Camp FIA! runs as a summer day camp on campus.
What clubs and activities are available to students beyond academics?
Students can participate in clubs such as Model United Nations, Technology and Robotics, Chess, Culinary Club, Jamaican Culture and Development Commission (JCDC) activities, Yearbook, Music Improv Club, and Student Council. There are also sports offerings like swimming, soccer, volleyball, tennis, basketball, and other intramural activities through the school's program.
How is leadership and student governance structured at FIA?
Leadership opportunities come from the Student Government and the Parent–Teacher–Student Association (PTSA), which organize events and provide student voice. The school emphasizes service learning and community leadership, with strong college planning and career guidance supported by staff and partnerships.
What wellbeing facilities and spaces support students' health and emotional well-being?
The campus provides spaces that support health, nutrition, and emotional well-being and includes a comprehensive Physical Education program. The school also runs a 1:1 technology program to facilitate learning via digital platforms and a parent–student portal to support communication.
Are there details about SEN, EAL, or safeguarding in FIA's provision?
The provided information does not specify dedicated SEN or EAL programs or safeguarding policies. It does note wellness-oriented spaces and programs, along with college counseling and a broad support structure through clubs and leadership opportunities.
Does FIA offer boarding?
Boarding is not applicable; FIA operates as a day school with no active boarding program listed and no boarding fees published.
What is the FIA uniform policy and what about meals at school?
Prep Years wear light blue tops, High School students wear white polo tops, and staff wear navy blue tops. Lunch is provided for a fee two to three days per week.
What accreditations does FIA hold?
Fairfield Academy is accredited by the Jamaican Ministry of Education, Youth and Information (MoEYI), NEASC, and the Commission on International Education (CIE). The school aligns with international standards and offers an American high-school diploma and AP/SAT options.
Are there any awards or recognitions listed for FIA?
No awards are listed in the provided information; accreditation and program offerings reflect the school's international placement and standards.
What languages are taught at FIA and is there any bilingual program?
Spanish is taught in the Middle Years (grades 7–8) as part of the core curriculum. There are no bilingual or immersion programs listed in the provided information.
What is the school governance structure?
Fairfield Academy is privately owned and independent. The Governing Board oversees operations and fiscal management, while a Founding Board provides strategic direction; both work with the Head Principal and various committees. The Operational Board is chaired by Lisa Lake, who also chairs the Founding Board.
What community events and service opportunities does FIA offer?
FIA engages with the Montego Bay and Jamaican communities through service-learning and events like the Jamaican Breast Cancer Awareness Walk/Run, International Coastal Clean-Up Day, and a 5K Color Run. Clubs such as Key Club lead service projects, and the school partners with local organizations like Watford Hill School and the One Love Learning Foundation; the PTSA coordinates community events and fundraising.
What languages are taught at FIA, and are there any bilingual programs?
Spanish is taught in the Middle Years (grades 7–8). English is a core subject; there are no listed bilingual or immersion programs in the provided information.
