A Bishop Auckland nursery has been targeted again after intruders broke in over the weekend, leaving damage that staff say is harming children’s learning.
Aclet Close Nursery School revealed the latest break-in in a Facebook statement on Monday, warning that incidents are becoming more common.
The school said: “We are really sorry to have to make this post but we have again been broken into over the weekend - this is now happening more often than not.”
Pictures released by the nursery show smashed furniture and debris scattered across the floor.
The damage at the school. (Image: ACLET CLOSE NURSERY SCHOOL)
(Image: ACLET CLOSE NURSERY SCHOOL)
Staff say repeated vandalism is wrecking equipment and resources used by children.
In its statement, the school added: “The damage and vandalism that is being carried out is limiting the experiences our children have.
(Image: ACLET CLOSE NURSERY SCHOOL)
(Image: ACLET CLOSE NURSERY SCHOOL)
“Our staff work tirelessly to provide amazing opportunities and learning experiences, which are being destroyed and can no longer be accessed.”
(Image: ACLET CLOSE NURSERY SCHOOL)
(Image: ACLET CLOSE NURSERY SCHOOL)
Headteacher Suzanne Staines said the latest break-in was part of a worrying pattern.
She said: “We are sad to say that our school has once again been broken into. This is now happening with increasing regularity.
“The damage and vandalism is taking resources away from our children and means they are missing out on the valuable learning experiences which we work so hard to provide.”
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The school is urging residents to report suspicious activity around the site and help stop the break-ins.
Ms Staines added: “We also want everyone in the community to be safe, including those who are putting themselves at risk by trying to enter the grounds.
“We would like to ask everyone to help us by reporting any sightings of people trying to get onto school property to the police.”
The Northern Echo contacted Durham Police for comment.