Major damage to electricity sub station after schools flood

Major damage was caused to the electricity sub station which powers three schools on the Wood View Learning Community Campus following a serious flood on Monday (18 November).

The sub station powers Woodlands School, Whitleigh Primary and Sir John Hunt Community College.

The emergency plan was triggered and parents informed immediately that the schools would not be open as usual.

The flood was caused by a completely unpredictable event which could not have realistically been foreseen. The Fire Service attended and coordinated the removal of flood waters throughout the day on Monday and supported the safe evacuation of the few residential pupils who were present overnight, staying in the Wood View Short Break Service.

Engineers are currently working around the clock to reinstate all electrical and mechanical systems to the buildings. Every effort is being made to return the schools to normal operation and all partners: Interserve, Plymouth City Council and Wood View School governors and leaders are working together closely in a response team.   

The Governors of the Wood View Federation will not permit the schools to open until all systems have been tested and the building is completely safe to use. Where possible, schools are exploring contingency plans to provide support to vulnerable students and those due to sit exams. The complexity of the situation means it is difficult to give precise timescales on recovery and return to the building.

Bill Wraight, Chair of the Federated Board of Governors, said: “All Heads, governors and partners are extremely sorry for the inconvenience caused to families and young people by this unforeseen event. We are working around the clock to ensure the situation is resolved as quickly as possible.”

The schools will stay in touch with parents and carers by text, letter or phone to keep them updated about the situation.