Entire school site closed after workers dislodge dangerous asbestos

Pupils and staff have been praised for their ‘positivity and resilience’ after a school was forced to relocate at short notice.

Spindle Point Primary School in Kearsley was set to welcome children back to the classroom in early September, until a maintenance issue where asbestos was disturbed put the start of term at risk.

Like many school buildings of its age, Spindle Point contains asbestos material that is harmless if it is left undisturbed. But just days before the school was due to open, some material was dislodged as contractors worked during the summer holidays.

Bolton Council said immediate action was taken to organise a full environmental clean of the building so children can return as soon as possible. Teachers and parents worked quickly to ensure on-line learning could start from the first day of school and the council began the search for suitable alternative sites.

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Just days after the initial incident, Spindle Point returned to face-to-face learning with pupils based across Great Lever, New Bury and Farnworth. Daily transport takes children to and from the school to their new classrooms, while new arrangements were also quickly put in place for IT, school dinners and other essential services.

Residents living near the new temporary sites have been praised for how accommodating and supportive they have been of the new arrangements.

Jenny Bingham, headteacher at Spindle Point, said: “The whole school community has pulled together to support one another in challenging circumstances. Despite the disruption and worry, families have worked in partnership with the school to ensure children are able to access education and get back to learning and spending time with friends, as quickly as possible.

“The staff team at Spindle Point have been tremendous in their response, setting up new sites to ensure the same high quality learning and care is in place for all of our pupils; they have been positive, innovative and resilient.” Bolton Council’s cabinet member for children’s services, Coun Martin Donaghy, said:

“The start of a new term can be a stressful enough time as it is, but this has been an unprecedented challenge for everyone at Spindle Point. I want to thank the headteacher, staff, families and pupils for the incredible calm and resilience they have all shown.

“I also want to thank those living near the temporary sites, their continued understanding and patience are greatly appreciated.”