School to reopen after fears on ‘danger concrete’
A SCHOOL forced to close because of dangerous concrete is planning to fully reopen in the new year with temporary buildings.
The majority of pupils at Bramhall High School were told to stay at home after an inspection on November 8 found dangerous RAAC concrete in the building.
Since then the school has introduced a mix of face-to-face and remote learning, but it is preparing for all pupils to return in the new year in temporary facilities.
On Thursday, December 7, a video was shared on social media appearing to show temporary classrooms being transported to the school.
Stockport Council has since confirmed the plan to bring all pupils back to school in temporary buildings while repair work takes place on the structure impacted by RAAC.
Currently, four year groups are learning in school and the remaining year group is learning remotely. This then rotates weekly, so all year groups have face-to-face teaching time.
RAAC – reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete – is a lightweight material which was used in some buildings such as schools and hospitals, with concerns raised about whether it may cause some structures to collapse suddenly.
It has been found in schools around Greater Manchester, including in a primary school in Stockport in October.
A council spokesperson said: “In line with updated guidance issued by the UK Government on the treatment of Reinforced Aerated Autoclave Concrete (RAAC) in education settings, Stockport Council has been carrying out further inspections on all schools across the borough.
“An inspection took place on Wednesday November 8 at Bramhall High School and on Thursday November 9 we were informed that RAAC had been found in some ceilings of the building.
“Plans are in place for all pupils to return to face-to-face learning when they return in the new year once temporary buildings have been added to the school site.
“We understand this is a difficult time for parents, pupils and the teachers at Bramhall High School but the health and safety of pupils and staff remains our paramount concern. The school is in regular contact with parents and carers and updates are shared weekly.”