Online classes resume as Archbishop Temple High School forced to close for ‘deep clean’ after fire breaks out in kitchen

Fire crews were called to Archbishop Temple High School in St Vincent’s Road after the kitchen caught fire at around 6.45am on Tuesday (October 18).

No injuries were reported, but the school later announced it would have to remain closed until the beginning of November as a number of areas required a “deep clean”.

When will the school reopen?

The school will reopen for all pupils at 8.20am on Tuesday, November 1.

Will pupils be able to learn from home?

Yes.

Lessons for tomorrow will take place virtually, or work set on firefly for pupils.

Teachers will be available for communication with pupils in their classes, via email/teams throughout the day.

What do I do if my child normally receives free school meals?

Pupils who would normally receive free school meals will be able to collect a grab bag between 11.30am-1pm on Wednesday (October 19) from the junior yard.

Has the open evening been postponed?

Wednesday’s open evening had been postponed.

The school said further information would be sent out in due course.

What did the school say about the closure?

In a letter to parents, headteacher Ivan Catlow said: “We continue to be grateful for the support and guidance being received from members of the community and the fire service.

“We have now been advised to close a number of areas of school for deep cleaning.

“We have had to make the difficult decision, in consultation with the Local Authority, Blackburn Diocese and the Fire Brigade Investigation Team, to close school until the start of the new half term.

“Thank you for all your thoughts and prayers.”

What did the fire service say?

A spokesman for Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service said: “At 6.44am, four fire engines from Preston, Fulwood, and Penwortham attended a commercial building fire on Garstang Road, Preston.

"The incident involved a two-storey commercial property approximately 100x400m in size.

"Firefighters used three hose reels, two positive pressure ventilation units, and six breathing apparatus to extinguish the fire.

"No injuries were reported.

“Crews were in attendance for an hour and a half.”