»After “major” water damage shut a Goodmayes school for more than a week, the “heroic” efforts of a headteacher and her team will mean “no child from Monday will miss out on their education”.

Cabinet issued an urgent agenda item at their meeting on Tuesday to allow for the “swiftest possible reinstatement” of Mayespark Primary School at Redbridge Town Hall, High Road, Ilford.

The flood, which started on Thursday evening, was caused by a 50mm mains water pipe which burst or split in the loft area of the school in Goodmayes Lane and went undetected until the following morning.

The damage, which will take an estimated six weeks to repair, forced children to stay home this week.

Cabinet member for children’s services, Cllr Alan Weinberg, said: “The children are the priority in this matter and they should be out of education for the shortest amount of time as possible. From Monday Years 4, 5 and 6 will resume classes at Mayespark.”

Reception, Year 1, Year 2 and Year 3 children will be transported to Loxford School of Science and Technology, in Loxford Lane, Ilford.

Cllr Weinberg said: “Half of the school is OK and it is the wish of the headteacher that the children return there.

“I want to thank the head, governors, and leadership team for acting quickly to maintain the education for the pupils. They have worked very hard to get the school up and running.

“It was an heroic effort and they pulled out all the stops.

“No child from Monday will miss out on their education.”

Cllr Thomas Chan said “speed is of the essence” in getting the school up and running again, and cabinet agreed to allow the appointment of contractors and suppliers to undertake the work, and provide temporary accommodation if necessary.

A statement on Redbridge Council’s website said parents will receive information later in the week about arrangements and transport for those travelling to Loxford.

Cllr Weinberg also extended his thanks to the Isaac Newton Academy, Cricklefield Place, Ilford for the “very quick offer” to house pupils at the school – which was ultimately not needed.