Last night’s surprise thunderstorms have caused flooding at a number of local schools, including Morley Memorial in Queen Edith’s, where some classrooms have been left without power and with wrecked flooring.

The headteacher, Ms Brown, has written to parents saying,

‘Unfortunately our school has suffered significant flood damage as a result of last night’s storms. We have lost the use of all Reception and year 1 classrooms and also a Year 3 classroom as well as the community room.’

Staff worked through the night to contain the damage and arrange for something close to normal service. Nevertheless, Reception children have had to stay at home today, and will be unable to attend school next week.

Seven other Cambridgeshire schools have been affected. Any further closures will be posted on the County Council website

“Following the rainstorms that hit Cambridgeshire yesterday evening a number of schools and early years settings, mainly in the Cambridge area have been affected by flooding. Cambridgeshire County Council has been liaising with schools to make sure any repairs are carried out as soon as possible. A small number of schools may have to close or partially close but they will stay open if at all possible. Schools and early years facilities will contact parents if they are closing early or if there is any change to their normal routine. The County Council will also be posting any school closures or partial closures on their website: www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/closures.

The Met Office had issued no Flood Guidance Statement or Adverse weather warnings to Emergency Responders, so the County was not expecting the thunderstorms. Nevertheless, school closures are hugely regrettable, as although the children will be happy enough to start their holidays early, many working parents will be caught out, with the consequent knock-on effect on the services where they work. Days off school for children also mean days off for nurses, doctors, transport workers – and other teachers.

It will be interesting to know what contingency plans the County has for securing alternative teaching accommodation when the need arises.

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