Sussex Police investigating suspected arson at Eastbourne school - children evacuated as fire breaks out
Sussex Police said it is investigating suspected arson after a fire at an Eastbourne school forced its closure on Wednesday morning (September 9).
The Lindfield School will remain closed on Friday (September 11) after parts of the building sustained ‘significant damage’.
A Sussex Police spokesperson said: “We can confirm Sussex Police are investigating this incident as suspected deliberate ignition.
“Our enquiries are ongoing and anyone with any information is urged to report it online or call 101, quoting serial 365 of 09/09.”
East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service (ESFRS) said crews were called at 10.15am on Wednesday to attend an incident at the school premises.
A spokesperson for ESFRS said: “Three fire engines from Eastbourne and Pevensey were called to attend a fire in an ICT room.
“The school was fully evacuated prior to arrival of the fire service, all persons were accounted for and there were no reports of any injuries.
“Crews used two breathing apparatus and one hosereel jet to put the fire out.
“A positive pressure ventilation fan was also used for smoke clearance.
“Crews left the scene by 12.38pm.”
The special education secondary school in Hampden Park is part of The Southfield Trust schools.
CEO of the trust Kirsty Eydmann confirmed all students and staff were evacuated safely ‘thanks to the swift and coordinated response of the school team’.
She said: “Emergency services attended promptly, and the situation was brought under control without injury.
“I want to extend my sincere thanks to all staff for their professionalism and care during the incident — in particular Nick Upton, Head Teacher, whose calm leadership and compassionate handling of the situation ensured the safety and reassurance of everyone on site.”
Ms Eydmann said the school aims to reopen on Monday (September 14) but insisted it will only happen ‘as soon as it is safe to do so, following a full health & safety assessment’.