VERULAM School will be closed for the rest of the week while technicians check the fire alarm system following reports that it failed to sound after a major blaze broke out yesterday (Tuesday). The fire was spotted at the Brampton Road, St Albans, school

VERULAM School will be closed for the rest of the week while technicians check the fire alarm system following reports that it failed to sound after a major blaze broke out yesterday (Tuesday).

The fire was spotted at the Brampton Road, St Albans, school at about 11.30am. Following the fire, pupils have contacted the Herts Advertiser claiming that the alarms were not set off in the incident.

The fire service went into the school today (Wednesday) to check the system but it will be closed tomorrow (Thursday) and Friday for more inspections to be carried out.

Verulam head teacher Paul Ramsey said: "The fire service inspected the system today and carried out two successful evacuations. Following that it was decided that the school should be closed on Thursday and Friday to allow technicians complete access to the alarm system without disruption to the school and the pupils."

He added: "We're sorry if this causes any inconvenience but the safety of the pupils is our paramount concern. We look forward to welcoming everybody back at school on Monday."

Two teenagers have been charged with arson following the fire and an earlier one on Monday.