Parents hit out at ‘last minute’ decision to close school over heating breakdown

Parents in West Lothian have expressed their frustration following a ‘last minute’ decision to close Bathgate Academy due to a heating breakdown. The closure was announced by West Lothian Council on Wednesday, leaving some students who had already arrived at the school and others on their way stranded. According to parents, the council had been aware of heating issues since Monday, leading to criticism over the timing of the closure notification.

One parent highlighted that the decision to send students back home at 8.15 am was untimely, especially since the heating issue had not been resolved the previous day. Another parent described the situation as a “total joke” as students were en route to the school when the closure decision was made. A spokesperson for West Lothian Council stated that they are working with the maintenance provider to address the ongoing heating issues at Bathgate Academy.

The unexpected closure has left parents scrambling to make alternative arrangements for their children, with concerns raised about childcare and the short notice given. The incident has sparked a debate among the community about the prioritisation of student safety and the efficiency of communication between the school and parents in such situations.

The closure of Bathgate Academy sheds light on the importance of proactive maintenance and effective communication in ensuring the smooth operation of educational facilities. The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by schools in maintaining infrastructure and the impact of such issues on students, parents, and staff members.

In conclusion, the incident at Bathgate Academy highlights the need for transparent communication and timely resolution of maintenance issues to avoid inconveniences for students and their families. It also underscores the vital role of school facilities in providing a safe and conducive learning environment for students.