A Newcastle school severely damaged by Storm Babet remains closed to pupils almost a week on with no date confirmed for when it will reopen.
Jesmond Park Academy was forced to shut last Wednesday (October 19) over safety fears after the roof suffered "extensive damage" due to the strong winds. The school said it is working with Newcastle City Council, school building owners, Albany and facilities management contractor, Equans, to carry out surveys and repair work on the building.
In the meantime, pupils have been learning from home with work set by teachers on the school's online system. However, parents have contacted the school expressing their concerns over the continued closure.
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The school is part of a multi-academy trust called the Gosforth Group, which said it was unable to provide a date when the school will reopen. However, it said that it is exploring the issue of alternative educational accommodation, particularly for exam students.
In a letter to parents on Tuesday, the Gosforth Group said: "We have received a number of communications from parents and guardians expressing concerns relating to the current closure of Jesmond Park Academy.
"Our estates and facilities and health and safety specialists continue to liaise with JPA’s facilities management contractor (Equans), the building owners (Albany), and Newcastle City Council to determine the way forward. Until all relevant surveys have been conducted, reports received, and reassurances made regarding the safety of the school site, the school will remain closed to students and staff.
"The time frame for the surveys and reports are beyond our control, and therefore we are not in a position to speculate as to when the school will re-open."
One parent, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “The school has been closed since last Thursday, and we’ve had no detail from Gosforth Group on what damage the school roof has sustained, how and when it’s going to be repaired – or who pays for it.
“Six days on, and we’re still hearing about a need for surveys and safety reports – no sign of repairs being completed.
"Our children had a long time out of school during the covid pandemic, and every day they are not at school is bad for them. Parents need certainty too. Some can work from home, but many can’t and have to take time off.”
Principal Steve Campbell thanked parents for their patience in a letter sent out on Tuesday and urged them to check the website for updates.
"We will communicate updates on the situation as soon as possible on a daily basis this week," he said.
"You may wish to make arrangements in the event the school remains closed for the remainder of this week. Please continue to check our website regularly for updates.
"We will also keep you updated using text messaging and social media as soon as we are able. I would like to extend my thanks to you for your continued patience and understanding during this difficult situation."
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