The head teacher of a school that suffered major damage in a fire has called it a “tragedy for the community”.

Rodmersham Primary, near Sittingbourne, is unable to re-open to pupils after half-term due to the extensive damage.

Four fire engines and a crane were called to the school after a blaze ripped through the building at 7pm on Thursday.

The fire service has since confirmed it started accidentally as a result of repair works being carried out on the roof of the school, in Rodmersham Green.

Head teacher, Nicky McMullon, confirmed the school was undergoing some maintenance work due to a leak.

She said: “It’s been a tragedy for the community but it has also shown the strength of the community coming together.

“It’s never something you would expect to happen but everyone has been so supportive. We hope to get our students back to learning as soon as we can.”

Last week the school was closed due to half-term. It was also scheduled to be closed today and tomorrow for staff development days.

But for the rest of the week, from Wednesday, pupils will be taught online while Kent County Council seeks temporary accommodation for the school.

At the moment there is no indication as to when the building itself will be repaired, but Ms McMullon is hoping to receive a report from the school’s insurers tomorrow.

She continued: “This isn’t something we will be able to sort by Monday. We’re just waiting to hear back from everyone.

“Most of the damage has been water and smoke damage.”

Blue tarpaulin has since been placed over a large section of the roof.

Ms McMullon is hoping for a full report into the cause by the end of the week.

A fundraiser set up within hours of the fire has already brought in more than £6,000 in donations to replace supplies and equipment lost to the flames.