A fire broke out at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Willesden on 22 September. Head teacher, Mrs Titus and her team ensured that all pupils and staff were evacuated swiftly, safely and calmly.
In response, other Catholic schools, including Newman Catholic College and St Gregory’s Catholic Science College, have rallied round to offer to accommodate pupils on their sites. Pupils are expected to return to school on 5 October in temporary classrooms at Newman College, with the nursery occupying space nearby. The school is working closely with the diocese and Brent Local Authority to look at options for the longer term.
The Catholic Children’s Society have generously offered help with replacing uniforms, coats, bags and other items lost by the pupils.
‘Our plan is to keep parents informed of developments as they occur,’ said Mrs Titus. ‘We’re grateful for their support and understanding throughout this time.’
Mrs Titus also wrote a letter to pupils to thank them for their bravery and for evacuating the building quickly. She reminded them of the school prayer which says, ‘many hands build a house, but many hearts make a school. This is what will make us stronger; our love of the school and our care for each other’.
At press time, emergency services were still assessing the extent of the damage to the building and the cause of the fire, which had destroyed the roof and the top floor of the school. The diocese is working closely with contractors and loss adjusters to determine the right course of action to repair the school.
A Mass was celebrated at the Shrine of Our Lady of Willesden for the school community, which included many of the children's favourite songs.
For all the latest updates, please visit the school's website: http://www.stjosephsrc.co.uk/school/
