After a challenging period of disruption, the school community was relieved to return to site at the start of the academic year. The return marked an important milestone in the school’s recovery, with pupils, staff and families working together to rebuild routines, restore stability and continue learning in their own environment. 

In response to the flooding event, significant investment has now been made to strengthen the school’s resilience against future incidents. A range of flood defence measures have been installed to protect the site and ensure learning can continue safely, even in extreme weather conditions. 

These improvements include protective barriers fitted at doors to prevent water entering classrooms, individual water pumps in each classroom to quickly remove any water ingress, and enhanced waterproofing systems across key areas of the building. In addition, Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS) have been introduced to improve surface water management and reduce flood risk on site. 

The works have been delivered following detailed assessment of previous flooding events, including planning for severe weather scenarios such as “1 in 100 year” flood risks. The solutions combine prevention and mitigation—designed both to stop water entering the building and to remove it quickly should flooding occur. 

Expert input has been central throughout the process. Flood resilience specialists Watertight International have led on installation of pumps, vents, waterproofing systems and door barriers. Civil engineers Alan Wood & Partners have supported drainage design to reduce the risk of water reaching the building, particularly at the rear of the site. Reinforcement and reinstatement works have been supported through GSP, with wider oversight informed by flood risk assessments and specialist loss adjusters working on behalf of the Department for Education and the Risk Protection Arrangement (RPA). 

Executive Headteacher Neil Bardsley said: 
“The flooding had a profound impact on our school community, and I am incredibly proud of how our pupils, staff and families responded throughout that time. The resilience shown was outstanding. We are now in a far stronger position thanks to the significant work carried out to protect the site, and we are grateful for the expertise and support that has helped us put these measures in place. Our priority is ensuring the school remains a safe, secure and stable environment for learning, whatever the weather.” 

The school has emphasised that while the experience was extremely challenging, it has also strengthened its sense of community and determination. The new flood defences provide reassurance for the future and reflect a long-term commitment to safeguarding education on site.