A rooftop fire at Rabbsfarm Primary School in West London has forced the school to close early for the summer holidays. The blaze, believed to have been caused by a disused solar panel, broke out at 12.15pm on Thursday, July 16, prompting a response from 60 firefighters and eight fire engines. All 550 pupils and staff were evacuated safely from the Gordon Road site in Hillingdon, and the fire was extinguished just after 2pm.
Headteacher confirms closure
Headteacher Helen Okoro released a statement following the incident, confirming that the school will not reopen before the end of term due to water damage. “Following the fire on 16th July 2026, I’d like to update and reassure you that all children were evacuated from the building safely and in good time following a swift response from our staff and the emergency services,” she said. “My sincere thanks to them for putting our children first and foremost and ensuring their safety. Unfortunately, due to the water damage to our premises, it will not be possible to reopen the school before the end of term.”
Alternative arrangements for pupils
Arrangements are being made for children who require additional support next week, with further information to be shared on Friday. The Year 6 end-of-year celebrations have been postponed, and the school is exploring alternative premises to host them. “I’m also aware that our Year 6 pupils were very much looking forward to their end-of-year celebrations, and we are exploring alternative premises to host these,” Okoro added. “However, this will not be on the school site, and further updates will be provided in due course.”
Parents with questions are advised to contact a member of the school team during school hours. The London Fire Brigade continues to investigate the cause of the fire.
