A fire at a primary school in Exeter prompted the emergency evacuation of classrooms and a rapid response from local fire crews after flames broke out inside one of the school buildings.
According to reports, the incident occurred at St Nicholas Catholic Primary School in Exeter during the afternoon hours when a fire started in a classroom display case. Staff acted quickly to evacuate pupils, teachers, and visitors from the building as emergency services rushed to the scene. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and all students were safely accounted for following the evacuation.
Firefighters from the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service responded with multiple fire engines and specialized equipment to contain the blaze. Crews used breathing apparatus, hose reel jets, and thermal imaging technology while working to prevent the fire from spreading further throughout the school building. Officials later confirmed that the blaze was successfully extinguished before causing catastrophic damage.
Emergency responders reported that the fire caused limited structural damage but resulted in smoke damage within the affected area of the school. Authorities stated that approximately five percent of the building sustained direct fire damage, while smoke affected a larger section of the premises.
School officials praised staff members and emergency personnel for their swift and organized response during the incident. In a statement released after the fire, representatives from the school confirmed that safety procedures were immediately activated and that all pupils and staff were evacuated calmly and efficiently.
The incident temporarily disrupted normal school operations as firefighters and investigators examined the building to determine the cause of the fire and assess the extent of the damage. Authorities have not yet announced whether classes will resume immediately or if temporary arrangements will be necessary while cleanup and repairs are completed.
Parents and members of the Exeter community expressed relief online after learning that everyone inside the school escaped safely. Social media posts from local residents described concern as emergency vehicles arrived at the school, followed by gratitude once officials confirmed there were no injuries.
Investigators continue working to determine exactly how the fire started, though early reports indicate the blaze was contained to a single classroom area. Officials emphasized that the school’s emergency evacuation procedures and the rapid intervention by firefighters helped prevent the situation from becoming far more serious.
Further updates are expected as authorities continue their assessment of the incident and recovery efforts at the Exeter primary school.