Spindle Point Primary, Kearsley relocated due to asbestos

The asbestos was dislodged just days before Spindle Point Primary School, on Moss Lane in Kearsley, was due to open while contractors worked on a project during the summer holidays.

But shortly after the asbestos was dislodged the school arranged to teach children in temporary sites across Great Lever, New Bury and Farnworth.

Spindle Point headteacher Jenny Bingham said: “The whole school community has pulled together to support one another in challenging circumstances.

“Despite the disruption and worry, families have worked in partnership with the school to ensure children are able to access education and get back to learning and spending time with friends, as quickly as possible.

Transport has been arranged (Image: Bolton Council)

“The staff team at Spindle Point have been tremendous in their response, setting up new sites to ensure the same high-quality learning and care is in place for all of our pupils; they have been positive, innovative and resilient.”

The asbestos contained in the school was like that of most buildings of its type and age and would have been harmless if undisturbed.

The council launched a full environmental clean of the building once the asbestos was disturbed and says its top priority is to get children back to classrooms as soon as possible.

Pupils have been able to continue learning (Image: Bolton Council)

Teachers and parents worked to make sure online learning could start from the first day of school before the alternative sites were found.

The children now have daily transport to and from the school to their new classrooms, with new arrangements in place for IT, school dinners and other essential services.

ALSO READ: Bolton school to be rebuilt from scratch

ALSO READ: Number of council owned building which contain potentially harmful asbestos

ALSO READ: Young family facing disruption at home after ceiling removed over asbestos concerns

People living near the new temporary sites have been praised for how accommodating and supportive they have been of the new arrangements.

The council's executive cabinet member for children’s services, Cllr Martin Donaghy, said: “The start of a new term can be a stressful enough time as it is, but this has been an unprecedented challenge for everyone at Spindle Point.

“I want to thank the headteacher, staff, families and pupils for the incredible calm and resilience they have all shown.

“I also want to thank those living near the temporary sites, their continued understanding and patience are greatly appreciated.”