The Headteacher of Scott Primary School, Bedford has praised the school’s community for pulling together in the wake of what she has called a “mindless act of vandalism”.
Vandals set fire to one of the school’s playground shelters and surrounding artificial grass on Thursday night (23 July).
Anita Barker said: “it was a very upsetting way to end an already challenging year for everyone.”
While the equipment that has been destroyed is insured, parents have set up a fundraiser to buy more play equipment.
They hope the equipment they buy will be in place before children return in September.
Cara Reynolds who highlighted the fundraiser to the Bedford Independent said: “Given what’s happened with covid over the last year or so, we want children to have something to come back to in September and not have the staff worry about it.”
Mrs Barker said she has been heartened by the way the school community has come together to help.
“We are heartened by the messages of support and also the fundraiser,” she said. “…we are grateful that our children can get new playtime equipment for when they return in September.
“I am proud of how our school community has pulled together.”
Police are now investigating and are asking anyone who may have any information to come forward.
A spokesperson for Bedfordshire Police said: “At approximately 10.45 pm on Thursday (23 July), we were called to a fire at the school.
“If you have any information please report online or call 101, and quote reference 40/38459/21.”
You can donate to the fundraiser to buy more play equipment at their GoFundMe page.
