Classes on the move

Newman RC College

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Newman RC college is being forced to move pupils to temporary classrooms while repairs costing £3million are made to the £34million building’s heating system.

A pipework problem at the four-year-old building will mean 18 months of repair work for the academy, in Broadway, Chadderton.

Two-storey cabins will house relocated pupils, either on neighbouring Thatch Leach, or directly behind the main school building.

One parent said: “The children only have one chance at their education, it’s going to be so disruptive.

“The school only opened in 2011 and it’s been one problem after another. The school wasn’t ready in the first place and now this.

“It’s the same group of children affected by the merger when the school opened. It’s just been a nightmare: I’m worried it could have a long-term impact on their lives.”

A meeting has since taken place between the school and local residents.

John Walton said: “It’s frightening that having only been open a short time, another £3million of work on defective pipes is having to be done. There are a lot of angry people.”

The work will start in February and the contractors have accepted liability for the work.

Headteacher Mike McGhee said: “The system is working but an industry-wide problem with the piping used when the college was built has been identified. All the pipework will have to be replaced and this could take around 18 months. Parents will be kept up to date throughout the process.

“We know this work may cause some disruption but contractors have said they will keep this to a minimum and ensure things are completed as soon as possible. The learning and safety of pupils and staff remains our priority.”