The City of Edinburgh Council has rapidly put in place temporary measures to ensure that pupils of Kaimes School are able to return near to the start of term, after the high winds caused significant roof damage.

The school, which provides primary and secondary education for pupils with additional support needs, was affected by the extremely high winds on Tuesday (3 January), which caused a large section of roof covering to come off one of the two main blocks.

This has resulted in water damage to two thirds of the building that houses secondary pupils and school catering facilities.

The Council has arranged for all primary and S1 pupils to return to school on Wednesday 11 January, one day later than planned, where they will be housed in the undamaged building. This additional day will ensure all debris can be removed from the playground and fencing can be repaired, with a cordon put in place around the other site.

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All other pupils will start back on Monday 16 January, in temporary accommodation at part of the former Fort Primary School. The Council has also ensured that new transport arrangements have been put in place for pupils to travel to this alternative site.

City Education Leader, Cllr Marilyne MacLaren said: "After the severe weather, it is our priority to get children back in school for the start of the term and although this is not going to be possible for pupils at Kaimes, we have acted quickly to ensure that there is as little disruption as possible and that the children have a safe environment to work in.

"I understand the difficulties that this can cause, and especially for pupils with additional needs, but we have put plans in place to minimise these difficulties and an option that provides them with a designated space that can most meet their needs. Additional support will be provided if required."

All parents have been contacted by the Council directly to inform them of the new arrangements and it is currently anticipated that they will remain in place until Easter.

(GK)