**Hundreds Evacuated as Huge Fire Engulfs Primary School in Wales**
A major fire has wreaked havoc at St Athan Primary School in the Vale of Glamorgan, prompting a swift emergency response and the evacuation of hundreds of students. The blaze, which broke out on Wednesday morning, caused significant damage to the school premises, with thick smoke billowing from the scene. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries, thanks to the quick actions of emergency responders. The school will remain closed for the rest of the week as fire crews work to contain and assess the damage.
The Vale of Glamorgan council leader, Rob Thomas, commended the emergency responders for their rapid intervention, stating that their professionalism prevented a potentially tragic situation. He expressed gratitude towards the staff and the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service for ensuring the safety of all individuals involved. Thomas reassured the community that arrangements will be made with parents and carers regarding the school’s closure and ongoing teaching plans.
A fire service spokesperson confirmed that the fire is now contained to an ICT suite within the school premises. Five fire crews and specialist units were dispatched to the scene to combat the blaze and ensure the safety of approximately 240 pupils, teaching staff, and contractors who were evacuated from the site. The fire service is currently investigating the cause of the fire in collaboration with on-site contractors and local authority education staff to prevent further damage.
In response to the incident, Cllr Thomas emphasised the importance of prioritising the safety and well-being of everyone involved in the school fire. He acknowledged the coordinated efforts of all parties, from the staff’s adherence to emergency protocols to the prompt arrival of the fire service, in averting a potential tragedy. The council leader’s remarks underscored the community’s relief that no injuries were reported amidst the chaos.
The South Wales Fire and Rescue Service provided details of their response to the fire, including the deployment of multiple fire engines and specialist officers to extinguish the flames. Efforts are underway to prevent any further spread of the fire and minimise damage to the affected areas. The spokesperson confirmed that no injuries were sustained during the evacuation process, and updates on the investigation into the fire’s origin will be released in due course.
As the school collaborates with local authorities and fire service officials to assess the extent of the damage, residents and stakeholders await further updates on the situation. The closure of St Athan Primary School for the remainder of the week serves as a reminder of the importance of effective emergency protocols and swift responses in safeguarding lives during unforeseen emergencies. The resilience and cooperation demonstrated by the school community and emergency responders highlight the significance of preparedness in mitigating potential risks and ensuring the well-being of all individuals involved.