School assesses extent of damage after fire

Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service said the fire has started accidentally in the roof

A primary school that had to be evacuated after fire broke out on the last day of the summer term is still assessing the extent of the damage.

Crews from Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service were called to Ormiston Cliff Park Primary Academy in Orde Avenue, Gorleston, at about 13:16 BST on 18 July.

In a letter to parents, principal Louise Watkins said pastoral support would be offered to pupils and staff upon the school's return.

A fire service spokesperson said: "Our fire investigation has determined accidental cause and that the fire started in the roof."

The school, part of Ormiston Academies Trust (OAT), was evacuated with all children accounted for while the fire was brought under control.

Over the weekend, parents were able to collect children's belongings and the school said any uncollected items, including bikes and scooters, would be stored securely until the start of the new school year in September.

Former pupil Myleene Klass, now an ambassador for the school, shared WOra post of support to her Instagram with a picture of smoke billowing out of the building.

She said: "To Cliff Park teachers and pupils, I'm glad you're all safe.

"I'm told teachers did a phenomenal job of getting you out. I'm sorry your last day of term looked like this, I'm relieved you're all ok. Sending my love."

Flames and billowing black smoke could be seen coming from the building

In her letter to parents, Mrs Watkins said the school was still in the early stages of "understanding the impact of Friday's fire".

It said: "Despite the challenges we must now navigate, I am confident that the unity and spirit shown will help us return stronger than ever.

"None of us could have anticipated the final day of term unfolding as it did. Despite it being managed to the best of our ability, it was of course a very worrying experience for all involved.

"While our firm ambition and intention is to re-open our provision fully as planned in September... given the extent of the fire, the work required is complex and will take time."

It said some less essential parts of the building would need ongoing work from September but that the school would make sure disruption was "minimised".

OAT said: "Our aim remains to welcome all pupils back to school as planned in September, ready to learn in a safe and supportive environment.

"We will continue to keep parents and carers updated over the summer and are doing everything we can to ensure a smooth return."