Eastbourne blaze-hit school is set to reopen

Stafford Junior School is set to reopen before Christmas following the devastating fire on November 15.
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The school, in Ringwood Road, has been closed since the incident, which is being treated as ‘suspicious’ by police after youths were spotted running from the scene.

An update from East Sussex County Council revealed that the school is preparing to reopen next month.

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A council spokesperson said, “In preparation for reopening, the school is currently being cleaned and modular buildings, which will provide temporary staff and office space, are being installed.

SPhoto by Jon RigbySPhoto by Jon Rigby
SPhoto by Jon Rigby

“If this work continues as scheduled the school will reopen to all pupils on December 7.

“While the school is closed, there is provision for key worker children at Cavendish Primary, Causeway Secondary, Pashley Down Infants’, Roselands Infants’ and Shinewater Primary schools. Remote learning continues for all other pupils.”

The school posted on Facebook, “We would like to thank yet again parents and carers and the local community for the many thoughtful expressions of support. We would also like to thank all the staff for their continued commitment to providing the very best opportunities for the children.”

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The school said Morrisons supermarket has donated food and drink which has since been made into parcels for any affected families that need support while the school is closed.

Photo by Dan JessupPhoto by Dan Jessup
Photo by Dan Jessup

Catsfield Christmas Tree Farm has also donated a 14ft Christmas tree. The school posted, “This will be a lovely welcome back for the children.”

East Sussex Fire & Rescue has offered children access to a referral service if they are feeling anxious after the fire.

Anyone with any information about what happened is asked to report online or call 101, quoting 1157 of 15/11.