SOME pupils have been able to return to the classroom after a burst water main caused disruption to teaching.

The water pipe at Hummersknott Academy burst on Monday, forcing the school to send pupils home.

The school had planned to open earlier in the week with a temporary water supply but it failed, meaning pupils have only been able to return to the site today. 

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Principal James Keating said the repair had proved more complex than originally thought.

It means pupils have been learning at home all week.  

Young people in years seven, 10 and 11 were able to return to the classroom this morning.

Those in years eight and nine are being taught at home via Teams today but are expected to return to the classroom on Monday.

People on site today are still not able to drink water from the taps and bottled water is being suppled.

Mr Keating, in a letters to parents and carers, said: “Our contractors are confident that our permanent water system will be purified and fully operational by Monday morning.

“Thank you for your patience over the last days and especially this morning. As I am sure you understand, safety and correct sanitation arrangements for all in the building are of paramount importance to us.”

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