Chester school remains closed following cyber attack

By Dherran Titherington 21st Jan 2025

Rachel Hudson pointed out that the 'school may need to be closed for longer' but updates would follow as soon as they became available (Image via: Google)
Rachel Hudson pointed out that the 'school may need to be closed for longer' but updates would follow as soon as they became available (Image via: Google)

Blacon High School suffered a ransomware attack on Friday 17 January, leading to its immediate closure.

It was announced that the school would be closed early this week, with doors supposedly reopening tomorrow (Wednesday 22 January).

The news was relayed to parents and carers in a statement on Blacon High School's website.

It said: "I write to inform you that school will be closed to students on Monday 20th and Tuesday 21st January 2025 due to a ransomware attack on Friday 17th January. 

"We have an independent cybersecurity company working in school to understand exactly what has happened.

"Until this is completed, I will not be able to provide any further details on any potential data breach."

Headteacher, Rachel Hudson, pointed out that the 'school may need to be closed for longer' but updates would follow as soon as they became available.

She provided context to the nature of the disruption, as she said: "Unfortunately, cyber-attacks like this are happening more frequently despite having the latest security measures in place. 

"This has sadly been experienced by the NHS, National Rail, other public sector departments and schools.

"Once all staff devices have been cleansed, teachers will spend time re-planning lessons and will set work on Google Classroom for students to complete at home during Monday and Tuesday. 

"Meanwhile, senior staff are creating systems to enable us to continue running the school."

The headteacher emphasised that students wanting to collect lunch from school could do so by attending reception between 11am and 1pm on the closed days.

She added: "We will keep parents and students updated and will open as soon as it is safe to do so. 

"All communication will be sent via Parent Pay, social media and the school website.

"Until the school phone systems are back online, you can contact school on this number – 0330 043 9883 between 8am and 4pm.

"I will update you as soon as we know more and will aim to open once again to students as soon as we can. 

"In the meantime, I ask for your support in helping students to complete work at home, especially for Year 11.

"Thank you for your patience and understanding at this time."

     

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