Hampshire schools closure: Emsworth school shuts due to 'emergency' as area cordoned off

A school has been closed as an “emergency” measure due to “significant risk” of falling branches from trees amid Storm Austen.

Half-term has come early for pupils at Glenwood School in Emsworth after it was closed today with the area cordoned off as the Washington Road school puts safety first amid strong winds and heavy rain.

A statement from the school said: “High winds pose a significant risk of falling branches from the tall trees on our school grounds. While we always try to keep the areas cordoned off, the safety of our pupils, who may not fully understand or avoid these restricted areas - must remain our absolute priority.

“We cannot guarantee a safe environment for your child/children under these conditions. The Local Authority have confirmed they will be carrying out essential tree management work over the upcoming half-term break to resolves this issue.

“However, until the work is completed, the site remains unsafe during severe weather. Work will be provided via Doodle. If you would like paper based work please let your tutor know.

“Attendance will be recorded as an authorised emergency closure and will not affect your child's attendance. We expect to reopen as normal after the half-term holiday on Monday 2 November. We understand that school closures cause inconvenience for families, and we have not taken this decision lightly. Thank you for your continued support.”