Structural investigations 'ongoing' at Central Integrated Primary School in Carrickfergus

The investigations are being carried out by the Education Authority, which has confirmed that it will facilitate remedial works based on its findings “at the earliest opportunity.”

It comes as staff and pupils have been temporarily relocated after concerns were raised over the condition of the roof at the school’s Thomas Street site.

In a statement, Central IPS thanked the EA and the local community for their support during an “unprecedented” period for the school. “We are very pleased with the progress that has been made during the investigation stage and are hopeful that this phase of the work will be completed very soon,” said principal, Mrs Hall.

"The Education Authority has been extremely proactive in ensuring that all necessary inspections and reports have been undertaken as quickly and comprehensively as possible. While the situation has undoubtedly been challenging for everyone involved, we appreciate the support and communication we have received throughout.”

Relocating ‘no small task’

Mrs Hall also expressed gratitude to North Street Presbyterian Church, whose support has enabled the school community to remain together. “I am absolutely delighted that North Street Presbyterian Church opened its doors to us and offered the use of its Lancasterian Street halls,” she added. “Their generosity, kindness and community spirit have been outstanding. Relocating an entire primary school is no small task, but the church has been incredibly welcoming and supportive, helping us provide a safe and nurturing environment for our pupils while the investigations continue.

"Since the temporary closure of the school building, staff have worked tirelessly to ensure that children’s education has continued with minimal disruption. Remote learning arrangements have been put in place, with teachers maintaining regular contact with pupils and families to support learning at home.

"Our pupils, parents and staff have been remarkable. Everyone has adapted to changing circumstances with patience, understanding and positivity. Although remote learning has enabled education to continue, schools are about much more than lessons. They are about relationships, friendships and belonging.

"Looking ahead, the school remains hopeful that it will be able to return to normal operations as soon as possible, subject to the outcomes of the ongoing investigations and any recommendations arising from them.”

‘Proactive maintenance’

A spokesperson for the Education Authority confirmed that the organisation would “continue to work with the school on mitigating disruption to the children's education”, adding: “EA very much regrets the impact on pupils and staff.”

The education body reiterated an earlier warning on how funding shortfalls are affecting maintenance of schools across Northern Ireland.

"We have repeatedly highlighted the consequences of the sustained funding shortfall that leaves us unable to carry out much needed proactive maintenance across the school estate in NI,” EA said.

"As we stated in June this year, the absence of funding for cyclical maintenance, and the shortfall in funding for reactive and planned maintenance, inevitably leads to a growing backlog of work year on year, and to long-term deterioration of the school estate.

"It also means the risk of school closures on safety grounds will continue to grow. We will soon reach the position where schools, or part of schools, routinely need to close due to unaddressed maintenance issues.”