St Francis Primary School in Lurgan, Co Armagh, closed on Monday after a caretaker detected a possible gas smell upon opening the building.

Acting Principal Marie Rice arrived at 8am and decided to keep the school shut for the day. The closure affected all 800 pupils under 11 years old on their first day back after the Easter break.

Rice contacted staff, parents, and the Education Authority Emergency Services. She prioritised safety for children and staff by acting as a precaution.

The school anticipates reopening on Tuesday. No area seal-off occurred.