Portable Toilets Brought In as School Struggles to Prepare for New Term
As the new term approaches, one school is facing an unexpected challenge – crumbling concrete. St Thomas More Comprehensive in Eltham, South East London, has taken urgent measures to get ready for classes. A batch of portable toilets has been brought in to accommodate the students while the concrete issue is addressed.
Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has assured schools that he is committed to resolving the concrete crisis. He pledged to allocate the necessary resources to fix the problem and ensure the safety of the children. St Thomas More Comprehensive, despite dealing with concrete troubles in various parts of the building, is determined to open as planned.
Other Schools Tackle Building Concerns
The impact of the concrete issue is not limited to one school. St Francis Catholic Primary School in Ascot, Berkshire, has set up marquees, possibly for teaching purposes. At Hornsey School for Girls in North London, scaffolding has been erected to reinforce classroom ceilings.
In response to the risk of building collapses, some schools have had to resort to remote learning arrangements reminiscent of lockdowns. Additionally, temporary classrooms have been set up to provide a safe learning environment.
Wider Scope of the Problem
An alarming situation has arisen, affecting a total of 104 schools that have been ordered to partially or fully close due to structural concerns. Chancellor Hunt acknowledges the seriousness of the issue and has committed to doing whatever is necessary to ensure children’s safety and education. He also acknowledged the potential for more schools to face closures in the near future, with asbestos posing an additional threat.
Concerns for Vulnerable Students
Children’s Commissioner Rachel de Souza has voiced her concern for the most vulnerable students, particularly those in special schools. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining access to education, recalling the challenges posed by the Covid pandemic when children were kept away from school.
In the face of these challenges, schools and authorities are working diligently to address the concrete crisis and ensure that learning continues in a safe and conducive environment.