School closed after fire in science lab

Newman College in Chadderton will remain shut after a fire broke out in one of its science classrooms.

The blaze on Wednesday, March 11 caused students to be evacuated from the building. 

Three fire engines attended the incident at around 1.50pm, which involved a wooden work bench. It is unclear what caused the fire, with witnesses claiming they detected an ‘electrical burn’ smell before the evacuation. 

Headteacher Mrs Kerry Phillips said: “On Wednesday 11th March there was a fire evacuation at the college, all pupils and staff were safely evacuated. I would like to thank our pupils for their calm and mature response, and the swift actions of our staff, who all followed the safety procedures across the college. 

“The incident caused fire damage to one science laboratory. Fire suppression systems activated quickly, preventing the fire from spreading any further. 

“Following advice from the Fire and Rescue Service, essential safety checks are under way, including inspections of electrical, gas and fire safety systems. While this work is completed, the building remains inaccessible.” 

The school is waiting for the building to be signed off as safe by the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service. The college will remain closed on Friday, March 13, with pupils expected to attend remote learning. 

A spokesperson for GMFRS confirmed: “At around 1.50pm on Wednesday 11 March, three fire engines from Oldham, Hollins and Chadderton fire stations attended a fire involving a wooden work bench in a science lab at a school on Broadway, Chadderton.

“Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used a gas monitor to assess the scene and one hose reel to extinguish the fire. Crews were in attendance for roughly one hour and 40 minutes.”