Thieves hit local academy – but neighbouring school lends a helping hand

THIEVES stole £20,000 worth of laptops and iPads from a primary school which was open to care for 20 children during the coronavirus outbreak.

They also caused widespread damage in every classroom and in the school office at Latton Green Primary Academy in Harlow, making it impossible for staff and children to use the school next day.

However, another nearby school also part of NET Academies Trust, Longwood Primary Academy, stepped in to open and provide the care and education for the children. The Government has ordered that all schools in England must be closed to slow the spread of Covid-19, except for pupils classed as “vulnerable” and children of key workers.

If anyone saw anything suspicious or has any further information, please can contact Essex Police by calling 101 and quoting crime reference number 42/46600/20.

Sinead McCarthy, Head of School at Latton Green Primary, said:

”It is almost unimaginable that someone could do this to a school at any time – let alone at a time when so many people are doing so much to support the national effort. Our staff have been exceptional and so we are all devastated.

“But the support from one of the other schools in NET Academies Trust meant that our pupil were able to attend school – children who needed to be in school to be kept safe and well cared for, and children whose parents needed to go to work so they could help others.”

Jo Coton, Chief Executive of NET Academies Trust, said:

“I have been so proud of all out staff throughout this period – but never more so than now. The way that everyone rallied round was extraordinary.”

NET Academies will remain open throughout the Easter holidays to support key worker families.