A COLCHESTER School has issued an update after a 'significant flood' caused damage to the main part of the school, meaning students had to arrive later than normal. 

St Helena, in Sheepen Road, had to push its starting time back to 10.45am this morning.

Parents were originally told it was due to "unforeseen site issues" but a letter sent to parents reveals the issue was caused by a flood in the reception. 

There was no damage or impact to any classrooms or teaching. 

The letter read: "Thank you all for your cooperation this morning. I am now in a position to update you. The start of the school day had to be delayed due to a significant flood to the main part of the school. 

"Due to the extensive water damage we needed to ensure we could open safely, this includes making sure our emergency evacuation system could operate.

"School will open at 10.45am for all students, and they should make their way to their form group on arrival through their normal entrance."

The school's timetable will resume as normal.

The letter continued: "Students will have break at 11.05am as normal and then lessons will resume at the normal times. Year 11 students will sit their Maths PPE exam after break.

"If you are visiting the school, you will be directed to use the alternative entrance due to the flood damage that's been caused.  I would therefore encourage you to only visit school site if absolutely necessary.

"Thank you again for your cooperation this morning."

St Helena School opened in 1938 and has served school pupils since its opening.