The large fire broke out at Thomas Bullock Primary Academy school on Thursday 13th August. Firefighters and police were called to the school at 2pm and had the fire brought under control by 4.30pm. The Norfolk fire and rescue service have since confirmed that it started accidentally.
The school in Pound Green Lane in Shipdham near Dereham is part of DNEAT, the Diocese of Norwich Educational Academies Trust. Oliver Burwood is the CEO of DNEAT. Mr Burwood says;
“The entire Trust is truly thankful that the fire did not result in any injury. I’d like to thank Shannon O’Sullivan, Headteacher, for her hard work alongside Trust staff yesterday in dealing with the aftermath of the blaze. An initial investigation has confirmed that the fire was accidental and related to the extreme hot weather. We’d additionally like to recognise and thank the fire service for their incredible response yesterday, and the professionalism and care that they showed. Our priority now is planning for a return to school for all Thomas Bullock children in September.”