Thomas Bullock Primary delays new term over collapse fears

Thomas Bullock Primary in Shipdham will not open to children as planned on Tuesday, following new government guidelines over reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete.

It was initially thought no Norfolk schools were affected by the warnings, issued by the government last week.

However, it has emerged that the school was one of those to have been contacted by the Department for Education over the controversial building material.

As a result, the school has delayed the autumn term by a day, instead re-opening on Wednesday, September 6.

The RAAC planks have been located in the school's assembly hall, which will be out of action for the foreseeable future while remedial works are carried out.

The hall is currently used for assembly, lunches and PE, however until the works have been completed these activities will all be held elsewhere.

A letter sent to parents has reassured the hall is the only vulnerable area of the school, with leaders "certain" there are no RAAC planks anywhere else on site.

Oliver Burwood, chief executive of DNEAT (Image: DNEAT)

Oliver Burwood, chief executive officer of the Diocese of Norwich Education and Academies Trust, said: "Over the summer holidays, the school and trust have been liaising with the DfE on its plans to carry out the remedial works needed to ensure long-term safety.

"Updated guidance from the DfE issued on August 31, though, recommends that trusts and schools consider not using any area containing RAAC until remedial works are carried out or the RAAC is replaced.

"The trust and school will be following this advice to ensure the safest possible environment for pupils and staff.

"We are sorry for the inconvenience this has caused but hope that in these specific circumstances, it will be understood."

Meanwhile, education Gillian Keegan has warned hundreds of more schools could be affected by the issue nationwide.