Temporary School Closure - Underground Objects UPDATES

Updated: Monday 18th November (1.15pm)

The investigation has now been completed. Work uncovering the mystery items has now finished and experts have advised there is nothing untoward at this location. For all the details regarding this, please refer to the Plymouth City Council website here.

Thank you for your understanding, patience and support during our temporary closure. We are pleased to let you know that we are now looking forward to welcoming back our students to school as normal tomorrow.

If you have any further questions or need additional information, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@millbayacademy.org.

To ensure learning continues uninterrupted, we will be providing online learning resources via Google Classroom, inline with the subjects your child would normally have no this day. Students can access their Google Classrooms using their school login details. We will also send out a separate reminder email with classroom codes and links for home learning helping students stay on track with their studies during this temporary closure. Continuing with learning online is an opportunity to maintain momentum during this temporary closure.

1. Why is the school closing on Monday, 18th November 2024?
As part of development in the Millbay area, two underground metal objects were found near the school site. While these items are most likely harmless remnants of old infrastructure, Local Authority experts will conduct further investigation to ensure safety. Closing the school allows this investigation without disrupting students.

2. Is there any danger to students or staff?
The Local Authority, police and other experts have confirmed that the area is currently safe. The risk of these objects posing any danger is extremely low. However, this precautionary closure helps us ensure the ongoing safety of our school community.

3. Will online classes be available during the closure?
Yes, learning resources will be provided on Monday, 18th November. Students can access these via the school’s online learning platform, Google Classrooms, using their usual login details, ensuring learning continuity even during this temporary closure.

4. What should I do if my child is eligible for Free School Meals?
Arrangements will be made for students eligible for Free School Meals where they can collect meals from Cathedral Church of St Mary and St Boniface from 10.45am until 12.15pm.

Address:

Cathedral Entrance
Wyndham Street West,
Plymouth.
​PL1 5ER

5. How will I receive updates on the situation?
Updates will be provided here and through the Local Authority website at www.plymouth.gov.uk/millbay-operation. We’ll communicate any changes immediately to keep you informed.

6. Why not keep the school open and implement safety measures if needed?
Closing the school for one day allows families to plan in advance, avoiding the potential stress of a reactive evacuation. We believe this proactive approach provides clarity and peace of mind for all families

7. What do I need to do now?
Please make alternative arrangements for your child on Monday, 18th November 2024. Please provide them with an appropriate space for learning using Google Classrooms. We will keep you updated as needed, through our website and local authority announcements. We request all parents to monitor emails and communications from school on Monday afternoon, to share plans for return to school on Tuesday.

8. Who can I contact if I have further questions?
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact the school at info@millbayacademy.org. While we currently have no access to make or receive calls, we can retrieve voicemail messages remotely, so we encourage you to leave a message if needed. Our team will also be actively monitoring the inbox from home to ensure timely responses. Thank you for your understanding and support.