PUPILS at Turton School were given the day off after the heating system broke down.

Years Seven to 10 were told to stay at home yesterday after the school was left with no heat in the main part of the building.

Year 11 pupils were accommodated in the T:Mac building where the sixth form is based so they could continue to prepare for forthcoming examinations.

Parents were urged to check the school website this morning to see if repairs — which include removing asbestos — have been carried out and to see if it is open today.

Headteacher at the school in Bromley Cross, John Porteous, said: “Regrettably we have been forced to partially close the school to students.

“We have suffered major leaks to the central heating pipes over the last fortnight but we have managed to keep the school open by shutting off sections and using alternative heating sources.

“However, sections of pipe now need to be replaced and this work cannot be done until the asbestos, which is present in the under floor ducts, has been removed. An area of school has been sealed off to complete this task.”

He stressed: “At no stage has there been any danger to anyone in school from the asbestos which is in enclosed, inaccessible ducts beneath the school. The welfare and safety of our students and staff remains our highest priority and we appreciate our parents’ support during this disruption.”

Regular updates are being posted on the school’s website which can be found at www.tmac.uk.com