Safety concerns force closure of Kingstown Anglican School Annex

The Kingstown Anglican School Annex has been closed until next Monday, while the government completes an assessment to ensure that the building is safe.

The Ministry of Education closed the school yesterday in the midst of heavy rain, giving the discovery of an electrical problem as the reason.

“Parents and guardians of students attending the Kingstown Anglican School Annex are asked to note that the school will be closed from 12:00 noon today due to the discovery of an electrical problem. BRAGSA is currently on the ground and will conduct a complete assessment to ensure that the children are returned to a safe environment. Parents and guardians are therefore asked to make arrangements to collect their children,” the release from the Ministry said.

Meanwhile, the St Vincent and the Grenadines Teachers Union (SVGTU) said yesterday that it had advised its teachers to “withdraw their services, with immediate effect, due to deplorable working conditions” at the school.
The release from the SVGTU said their decision followed a visit to the school after members of the National Executive were alerted about the conditions at the school.

“On arrival, the conditions at the school were deemed quite hazardous, and as a consequence, jeopardizes the safety of its occupants. Amongst other things are a roof with an extensive leak, water falling on light fixtures and electrical fittings, electric surges, and broken electrical outlets.

“Moreover, the members of staff are very uncomfortable with the structural inadequacies. It gravely affects the teaching and learning process, as well as their psychological well being. The SVGTU takes its responsibility seriously and will not sacrifice the safety of students, parents, its members or any other occupant of that building,” the release from the SVGTU said.
The Ministry of Education said the school will reopen on Monday, October 22.