REPAIR work has begun in earnest at UCAN following a devastating fire earlier this year.

The blaze in February spread through a number of buildings at the Rudheath school, causing ‘substantial damage’.

Developments so far, ahead of children resuming their studies in for the 2018/19 academic year, have included specialist cleaning making affected rooms accessible.

Damaged assets have also been replaced, with ceilings and new lighting fixtures fitted in the main reception, school hall and affected areas close to the dining hall.

The school library is now fully operational, and the main dining hall has seen new flooring installed.

Features of the ongoing refurbishment will see a newly designed reception area, improvements to the school hall, stimulating new classrooms and a renewed school library designed to create an inspiring learning environment for all students.

Work this term will see students from UCAN and nearby primary schools join forces to help shape the future of the school.

Cath Green, principal, said: “I would like to thank all of the parents, staff and our local community who have supported UCAN. As a school we have continued to provide the highest level of education to all of our students during these challenging circumstances.”