A fire which damaged classrooms at a Wallington school was "most likely started in an act of arson."

In an update on the Christmas Day blaze at Bandon Hill Primary School, Sutton Council said that the London Fire Brigade indicated that it was started on purpose, although it is still not known who started the fire or the motive behind it.

A statement from the council read: "The school and council have met with their insurers and buildings companies and work is now underway to restore the infant section of the school.

"Sutton Council and the insurers are providing a temporary classroom for reception children until the work is completed due to the extent of the work that needs to be carried out in the reception classrooms."

Initially it was believed that pupils in Reception, Year 1 and 2 would not be able to attend class until January 20 as a result.

But the council has since brought some of those dates forward.

  • Year 2 – Woodpeckers and Kingfishers – were able to return to school on Tuesday, January 7 as normal
  • Year 1 – Larks and Wrens – will be able to return to school on Monday, January 13
  • Reception – Swifts and Mallards – will be able to return on Monday, January 20