Ref: PR1981
Date: 24/10/08

Carleton Community High School in Pontefract is planning for the future following the devastating fire last weekend, which destroyed nearly half its buildings.

So many parents attended a meeting called by headteacher Rob Foreman at Xscape in Castleford last night that the evening had to be divided into two sessions.

Today Mr Foreman said the meetings had very positive and that a further meeting had now been arranged for Monday, November 3 at 7pm at the King's High School, Pontefract, when he would be in position to give details of the educational provision for students.

Mr Foreman said: "It is now clear that we will not be able to get students back on site at Carleton when school re-opens after half-term on November 3.

"We are now working hard to put plans in place to make sure that education continues for our students. I will be giving details of how this will be achieved at the next meeting on November 3. We will also be writing to all parents so any not able to attend the meeting on November 3 will be getting a letter to explain what's happening."

Mr Foreman said demolition of damaged structures was starting on site on Monday and the school annexe had been established as an administration centre and base for teachers to work from.

Elaine McHale, Corporate Director for Family Services for Wakefield Council said: "The Council is supporting the school to ensure that lessons can be provided for students as soon as possible after the half term. There is clearly a lot of work to do done, both on the school site and in making arrangements for education to continue.

"Our priority remains the education of students and we are grateful to parents and the wider school community for their support during what continues to be a challenging time for Carleton community High School."