PARENTS’ concerns about the state of the current Cowes Enterprise College are shared by chair of governors Alan Wells, he admitted last night (Thursday).
At a town council meeting, facing questions about the state of the old building and delays in the move to the new building, Cllr Wells said the existing school was not a pleasant environment.
Parent Sarah Arnold said: "We want to know what's happening. We've been told they are hopefully moving in September, but the children are not happy at the moment in the school.
"We're worried about health and safety. There's carpets the kids can trip on, water dripping into an electricity box, cracks in the walls and tiles missing off the wall and ceiling."
She added: "This is a school where our children should be going to learn. I wouldn't go to a work place like that. I don't see why our children should have to go there."
Cllr Alan Wells said: "It isn't a pleasant environment to work in. Clearly it isn't getting any better but our Isle of Wight Council team are still responsible for it. They're working fully on it and dealing with the issues you raise.
"The existing school is no worse than it has been, it looks worse as artwork has been removed, but it's no worse. The failure of the contractors to complete the new building has made it extremely difficult."
He added: "We're very happy to meet with you privately. I can say more one to one.
"I am limited on what I can say. I am not trying to hide anything but I want to say I absolutely sympathise with you."
Mayor David Walters also told the worried parents their first port of call for information was to the school and the chair of governors.
Cowes north councillor George Brown, deputy leader of Isle of Wight Council and cabinet member for the economy and regulatory services, said: "A significant number of defects and outstanding items of work have been identified that must be rectified before the building can be occupied for teaching purposes.
"No estimated date is yet available for completion of the required remedial work."
Reporter: sarab@iwcpmail.co.uk