Auchenharvie Academy to reopen to pupils as water supply given all-clear
The school building has been shut since the start of the new term after routine tests led to the discovery of legionella bacteria
Last updated 30th Aug 2023
Auchenharvie Academy in Stevenston will reopen to pupils and staff on Thursday, after the school’s water supply was given the all-clear.
Pupils have been taught elsewhere since the new term began last week following the discovery of legionella bacteria in the buildings water supply.
READ MORE: North Ayrshire high school unable to open for new term after legionella discovered in water supply
North Ayrshire Council confirmed on Wednesday night that tests had now come back clear.
Councillor Shaun Macaulay, Cabinet Member for Education and Young People, said: “While we were confident that we had dealt with the issue, it’s still very welcome news that the tests have confirmed this, allowing our young people to return to their school straight away.
“I would like to thank all pupils and parents for their understanding and patience, as well as Mr Johnston and his staff for their fantastic efforts in ensuring our young people continued to receive their education during this time.”
Auchenharvie Academy Head Teacher Calum Johnston said: “I would like to thank our hosts at each of the different venues which have been accommodating us over the last couple of weeks and praise them for their hospitality and understanding.
“I would like to recognise the outstanding efforts of the staff at Auchenharvie as well as our colleagues in the various services within North Ayrshire Council who have worked incredibly hard to provide a continuity of education for our pupils during this period of disruption.”
The temporary arrangements were put in place following the discovery of traces of legionella bacteria in the school’s water supply as part of the Council’s water-quality monitoring regime.
This testing was carried out as part of the replacement of a water main and work to upgrade school toilets.