School to remain closed for ‘immediate future’ after heartbreaking fire
A school is set to remain closed for the “immediate future” due to extensive damage caused by a fire. Firefighters were called to reports of a fire on the roof of Rodmersham Primary School near Sittingbourne[1] last night (October 26).
Four fire engines and a height vehicle attended the blaze shortly after 7pm and crews used hose reel jets to extinguish the flames. Kent Fire and Rescue Service confirmed there were no injuries reported and the cause is not yet known.
Kent County Council (KCC), which is responsible for the school building, told KentLive it was working with the school to “identity and arrange alternative temporary premises for the pupils”. A spokesperson added: “Our insurers have already been contacted. When the damage has been assessed and investigations completed, work will begin to repair and rebuild as necessary as soon as possible.
“The school had already planned to have two staff development days on Monday and Tuesday (so pupils would not be in school anyway) and will be providing online learning for pupils for the remainder of next week – from Wednesday to Friday.”
Swale councillor and governor at the school Monique Bonney said she was “absolutely heartbroken” after seeing her former school on fire. In an emotional post on Facebook she said: “I’m absolutely heartbroken that there was a major fire at Rodmersham Primary school.
“This is a school that I went to and my son went to, so it has a huge place in our hearts and so much so I remain a school governor. The governors in attendance tonight and head teacher are truly devastated at the extent of the damage witnessed, we will be looking to ensure the pupils can continue with their education.
“How is to be determined but the headteacher will communicate with parents in due course. Please be patient as there are many issues to be addressed. The headteacher Mrs McMullen has been in touch with Kent County Council who are responsible for the school buildings. The school had been undergoing roof repairs this week.
“The damage to the school is significant both in terms of fire damage and also water damage. My heart goes out to the Rodmersham school community and the village at this challenging time. Thankfully no one was hurt/injured.”
A GoFundMe page[4] has been set up by the community to help replace supplies and equipment following the blaze. It has so far raised more than £5,000 of its £10,000 target. To donate, click here[5].
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References
- ^ Sittingbourne (www.kentlive.news)
- ^ Puppies found in ‘terrible state’ abandoned in alleyway (www.kentlive.news)
- ^ Photos show lorry fire on M2 as it remains closed for repairs (www.kentlive.news)
- ^ GoFundMe page (www.gofundme.com)
- ^ click here (www.gofundme.com)
- ^ HERE. (data.reachplc.com)