Vandals smash windows at Southampton Oakwood Primary School

Oakwood Primary School has been subjected to seven vandalism attacks since the summer.

The school, on Sandpiper Road, has now suffered around £4,150 worth of damage after a gang of youths broke onto the site during a recent incident. 

The group reportedly climbed onto the school roof and used tiles to smash eight windows in the school hall.

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They also destroyed part of the school's bike shed leaving sharp plastic exposed.

Vandalism at Oakwood Primary School, Southampton. (Image: Daily Echo, Emily Liddell)

This is the seventh attack since the summer holidays and the repairs will have to be paid for by the school, which has around 400 pupils.

During previous incidents windows were shattered, equipment damaged and buildings daubed with graffiti.

Headteacher Maria Whitmarsh said that the hall is now out of action until the area can be made safe.

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She said: "We have unfortunately had several incidents of vandalism over the past few months.

"On a few of those occasions, including this one, high-level windows in one of our halls have been smashed.

"This means the hall is out of action until it can be made safe, affecting children's lunchtimes, assemblies and this week, led to a postponed performance from some of our children to their parents.

"The cost of repairs over time is running into thousands of pounds.

Vandalism at Oakwood Primary School, Southampton. (Image: Daily Echo, Emily Liddell)

"This is especially upsetting at a time when school budgets are already stretched.

"Our children are also upset that this is happening to their school, a place where they feel safe and are proud to be a part of."

Police have confirmed they received a report of criminal damage on Monday, November 28, between 10pm and 11pm.

Councillor Matt Renyard has called on parents to ensure they " know where their children are at all times".

Councillor Matt Renyard (Image: Newsquest)

He said: "The person/persons responsible for this act of vandalism were very lucky to have not been injured or worse.

"As Southampton cabinet member for a safer city I must reiterate this type of behaviour can often have long-lasting consequences for those involved, as well as the obvious disruption to the community in which they live.”

Anyone with information on this incident is urged to call police on 101 or online quoting 44220484495.

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