Exeter school delays new term opening

Parents have reacted with anger on social media

An Exeter school will not be opening on time for the start of the new school year this week.

Westclyst Community Primary School says their new building won't be ready for a safe opening on Wednesday, and will instead open next Monday.

They have apologised in a letter sent to parents - and have invited to a meeting tomorrow evening at Broadclyst Primary.

Parents have reacted with anger on social media, with many complaining that they will have to arrange last-minute childcare.

In a statement, the school says: “We regret to inform you that the new Westclyst building is not going to be ready for a safe opening on Wednesday the 4th of September and will instead open on Monday 9th September. A letter has been emailed to all parents so please refer to this for more details.

“On behalf of the Trust, the Department for Education and the main contractors we wish to apologise for any inconvenience and disappointment that this causes. Despite having worked tirelessly through the summer a combination of events has led to Building Control being unable to sign the building off for handover at present, but we are confident that this delay of 3 extra days will allow us all the needed time to open on the following Monday.

“We will keep you informed next week on the progress we are making and would like to invite you to a meeting on Tuesday evening at 7.00pm at Broadclyst Primary School to provide an update in person and answer any questions that you may have.”