Following the fire in the summer which devastated school buildings at Selsey Academy, work is now completed on an ‘instant school’ produced from portable buildings provided by modular buildings firm, Portable Offices to accommodate the 453 pupils while a re-construction project takes place.

A massive portable village was required to provide an ‘instant school’ on the school’s athletics track and this was established within just six weeks and was ready for pupils to return to after the half term break.

As well as classrooms, the temporary buildings needed to house science labs, workshops and food technology areas.

Tom Garfield, head teacher of the academy, said: “We were absolutely delighted to see the first temporary school buildings arrive on site. We were in a position where just 44 days after the disaster where we were able to resume educating the community’s children once again.

“Parents’ biggest fear was that children would have to be bussed to alternative education facilities. We all felt it was essential to maintain secondary education within the community.

“One of the most surprising and pleasing aspects is the fact that these are superb buildings with a great finish and are miles away from temporary boxes with limited appeal; instead they are great working spaces.

“Despite the enormity of the task, Portable Offices rose to the challenge and I can’t thank them enough. Words don’t do justice to what they have achieved and the outcome for our pupils.”

For more information on Portable Offices’ range of products and services visit www.portableoffices.co.uk