College Closure Update Following Fire Incident

Dear Parents and Carers,

I am writing to update you following the fire evacuation that took place at the college.

Firstly, I would like to thank all pupils for the maturity and calmness they showed during the evacuation. The entire college was safely evacuated within three minutes, which is a testament to how seriously our pupils and staff take safety procedures. I am pleased to confirm that all pupils and staff are safe.

The incident resulted in fire damage in one science laboratory. The building’s fire suppression systems activated quickly and helped prevent the fire from spreading further. As a result, the majority of the damage has been caused by water from the fire system, which has affected three hub areas, impacting a total of eleven classrooms.

Following guidance from the Fire and Rescue Service, a full series of safety checks is currently taking place before the building can be signed off for reoccupation. These checks include the inspection of electrical systems, gas supply, and fire safety systems to ensure that the building is completely safe to return to. Once these essential services have been verified, work can then begin to address the affected classrooms.

At present, the building is not accessible to staff or pupils while these checks and assessments are carried out. We appreciate your patience as this work is completed safely and thoroughly. If any pupil belongings have been affected in the classrooms impacted by the incident, please be assured that these will be covered through the college’s insurance arrangements.

Unfortunately, the building has not yet been signed off for use, as these checks must be carried out carefully and thoroughly. As a result, the college will remain closed on Friday 13 March.

We are aware that information can circulate quickly on social media during incidents such as this. To ensure that families receive accurate and reliable information, please rely on updates issued directly by the college through our usual communication channels, including Arbor, the college website, and our official social media accounts.

I would also like to thank parents and carers for their supportive messages, patience, and understanding shown since the incident occurred. Your cooperation has helped us manage the situation calmly and safely, and it is greatly appreciated.

Remote learning will continue tomorrow, and I will provide a further update tomorrow once we have additional information. At this stage, we remain hopeful that the college will be able to reopen next week, subject to all safety checks being completed and the building being confirmed safe for staff and pupils.

Thank you again for your continued support.

Yours sincerely,

Mrs K. Phillips

Headteacher