Closure Update on PCHS

Following a meeting this morning with structural engineers, CEO Alice Witherow announces that Prudhoe Community High School will remain closed for the foreseeable future. 

Structural engineers and specialists have been conducting investigations since a floor crack was identified on the upper floor on February 10, 2025. Further assessments since then have determined the building is not safe to continue operating and needs to remain closed.

“Along with all my colleagues, I am deeply saddened to bring you this news,” said CEO Alice Witherow, “I understand the anxiety this situation causes, especially for parents, students, and staff, and particularly for those in their GCSE and A-level examination years.”

Efforts are underway to return students to face-to-face learning as soon as possible. The school is exploring several options, including:

• Relocating to another site

• Partial relocation for specific year groups

• Constructing temporary mobile classrooms

The Department for Education and Local Authority are actively working with the school to assess these options during the upcoming half-term holiday. 

In the interim, lessons will be delivered online, and the school will provide additional details to parents and students regarding remote learning plans.

“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the parents, staff, and community members for their continued support during this challenging time,” added Alice Witherow. “The safety of our pupils and staff is our top priority, and while this situation is difficult, I am confident in the strength of our school community to navigate through it.”

CEO Witherow also apologised to parents for the timing of this announcement, coinciding with the start of half-term. The CEO plans to hold meetings after the half-term break to share updates and address any questions to parents and families from the school. If anyone has any questions, they are encouraged to email info@cheviotlt.co.uk.