Uppingham Community College chairman of governors has written to parents to thank them for the 'tremendous support' shown following last week's serious fire.

Geoff Thompson says he has been compelled to contact parents on behalf of the board of governors due to the 'highly unusual and challenging circumstances'.

"I would like to thank parents for the tremendous support that has been provided for staff and students following the terrible fire last week.

"The positive effect of your messages on the morale of the team cannot be underestimated," he says.

Mr Thompson goes on to praise headteacher Ben Solly and his team for their 'amazing response'.

"'Team UCC' are now embarking on their recovery plan so it is safe for students to return to school, whilst resuming remote teaching for the next few weeks.

"I know the teachers will be working very hard to provide high quality learning resources online," he adds.

The insurance team, explains Mr Thompson, has been 'very supportive' and is helping the school ensure it has the resources to secure the safety of the site and resume education provision as quickly as possible.

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"I am sure you will appreciate, this is a highly complex task and it is essential that we establish a safe working environment before students return," he explains.

"It is important that the leadership team at UCC now have the opportunity to focus all of their time and energy into the recovery plan so that students can return to school as quickly as possible; I am sure you will continue to show them your support by allowing them to do this."

Mr Solly anticipates a phased re-start for students later this month, hopefully from Monday, 21 September, with all pupils possibly returning on Monday, 28 September.

Leicestershire Fire & Rescue Service has revealed the cause of the blaze in the early hours of last Wednesday (26 Aug) was accidental due to an electrical fault.

A three-storey block sustained significant fire and smoke damage. No one was hurt.