Northchapel Primary’s comeback from last summer’s catastrophic floods has won the admiration of Andrew Griffith MP.

The MP praised the Petworth primary school’s resilience and outstanding commitment to education, calling its efforts “truly inspiring.”

A devastating flash flood on August 1, 2024, caused colossal damage to classrooms, offices, and the £30,000 outdoor play area. Insurance covered structural repairs, but essential learning materials and the play surface were excluded, leaving the school reliant on community support.

Andy James, Chair of Governors, said: “It was awful. We had put so much time, effort, and money into creating a great learning environment and outdoor play area that my heart just sank to see it all destroyed by the flood.”

As a temporary measure, the preschool was moved to the village hall, while the breakfast club, afterschool club, and Reception and Year 1 classes were relocated to different classrooms within the school.

More than £12,000 was donated to help get the school back on track, and after nine months of extensive repairs and the rallying support of the community, Northchapel reopened earlier this year.

“We can finally breathe a sigh of relief,” said Katy Brown, whose daughters attend the school. “It’s been a long period of uncertainty, but now we’re excited to see the kids back in their classrooms.”

Work on the outdoor play area will continue later this year once drainage improvements are completed.

During his visit, Mr Griffith toured the newly refurbished classrooms, commending the school’s enriched curriculum and the dedication of staff.

“For such a small school, the subjects and experiences on offer are outstanding,” he said. He was particularly impressed by the children’s enthusiasm for learning and their upcoming visit to Oxford University.

A highlight for Mr Griffith was the school’s heated swimming pool, which he described as “a fantastic asset for a primary school of this size.”

Headteacher Deborah Coggin and school governors took the opportunity to discuss some of the challenges that a small school like Northchapel faces. The lack of affordable housing for families in the area, necessary repairs to ageing buildings, and the need for additional funding for free school meals all put pressure on the school’s budget.

Miss Coggin said: “We are all thrilled to have the chance to showcase the wonderful work the staff and children do here. However, the issues around funding and the necessary repairs to our buildings are an ongoing concern, and we hope for a resolution soon.”

The MP reassured staff that he would raise these issues with the local council and in Westminster. He also emphasised the importance of investing in rural schools to keep village communities thriving.

The visit was a reminder of the importance of supporting local schools and ensuring that all children have access to the best possible learning environment close to home. Northchapel is currently looking for governors to support the school into the future. Miss Coggin and the team welcome anyone wishing to tour the school.

To continue supporting the school’s recovery, visit justgiving.com/page/northchapelptaflood