Rayleigh’s MP, Mark Francois, performed a very happy duty when he visited Wyburns Primary School, who have now returned home after safety concerns originally closed their school last September. The school, based at Nevern Road, Rayleigh, had to close at very short notice last autumn, following the discovery of Reinforced Aerated Autoclaved Concrete or RAAC in parts of the school roof.
As the local MP, Mark was subsequently involved in multiple meetings with Department for Education Ministers and Essex County Councillors and officials, to try and expedite repairs, so that the children could return safely. In the interim period, the school moved into a temporary home at the Rochford District Council Civic Suite, at the top of Rayleigh High Street. Following successful roof repairs, the school returned to their original home early in January and Mark was invited by the Headteacher, Ms Kath Samson, to attend a special assembly to help commemorate the occasion.
As part of the event Mark briefly addressed the pupils, to congratulate Ms Samson and all her staff for keeping the pupils secure while the repairs were underway and then bringing them safely home. Mark also assisted in handing out awards for pupil achievement, on the day.
Speaking about the visit and the whole RAAC ordeal, Mark said:
“As someone who worked hard to bring Wyburns back home safely, I was very privileged to attend their special assembly. However, the real credit goes to others, including Essex County Council, Rochford District Council - for lending them the Civic Suite - and most of all Ms Samson and all her staff, for their amazing efforts in maintaining education throughout. I wish Wyburns all the best of luck for the future, back in their traditional home.”
