Toxic gas school in Stafford shut until 2016

Pupils who were forced to leave a Stafford school due to toxic gas on site will not be allowed back until after Christmas.

Flash Ley School in Hawksmoor Road was closed last month after the gas was found to be causing pupil sickness.

While investigations into presence of formaldehyde at the school continue, pupils have been educated at the nearby Chetwynd Centre, Tillington Manor Primary and Stafford Manor High, where they will stay until after Christmas.

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Headteacher Simon Barker said: "The staff and children have settled into their new surroundings really well, and we have been busy getting on with school life.

"Now that we know we are in our current arrangements until at least Christmas, this gives some continuity for children and staff.

"I want to thank all staff, parents and children for their overwhelming support and patience over the past few weeks.

"It has been a difficult time for us all, and we could not have managed it without the commitment they have shown to our school and the positive way everyone has dealt with the changes.

"I will also continue to keep parents and children fully informed about next steps."

County Councillor Ben Adams, cabinet member for learning and skills said: "The investigations at Flash Ley, and determining the work needed to fix the problem, are very complex and likely to take some time."