STUDENTS at a Belvedere school returned to their classrooms last week for the first time since asbestos was discovered.

News Shopper reported in November how Belvedere Infant School shut after asbestos was found in the hall.

Classes have since been delivered elsewhere, including St Augustine of Canterbury C of E Primary School and the Belvedere Community Centre sports hall.

Some pupils were taught at the school again before half term, with everyone returning by February 20.

A school spokeswoman said: “We’re delighted to be back in school.

“It was an upheaval but we were able to continue with the children's education and carry on business as usual.

“The contractors did a fantastic job and managed to get the majority of children back into their classrooms ahead of schedule.

“We’re pleased to be back into our old routine and be together again.”

The school teaches 240 youngsters aged between four and seven.