The staff and students at Willyama High School may be impacted when it comes to returning to the classroom in 2024 after mould was found in various locations throughout the school buildings.
The NSW Department of Education – School Infrastructure says they are working to remediate the mould identified at Willyama High School which developed because of the severe heat and humidity experienced over the course of the school holiday period.
On Monday morning, an approved specialist contractor began remediating mould and moisture at the high school through environmental cleaning, under the advice of an independent occupational hygienist who has provided advice on remediation in accordance with SafeWork NSW.
“All impacted areas will be environmentally cleaned, and air monitoring conducted. Following assessment by the hygienist, each space will be cleared, and the school provided with a clearance certificate,” a statement from the NSW Department of Education – School Infrastructure read.
“We have also assessed key equipment and infrastructure in the school such as the air conditioning and IT systems to confirm they are in appropriate condition. Some mechanical and minor repairs will also be done as part of the remediation of the school.”
It is expected the required work will be completed in time for the start of Term 1 on Thursday, February 8 with the Department working closely with Willyama High School leadership to ensure that pupils can return to school safely.
“Our priority is always to ensure that students can receive face-to-face learning in a safe environment and are planning alternative arrangements for the start of Term in the unlikely event this is required,” the statement continued.
“The health, safety, and wellbeing of the school and the local community is our highest priority.”
