Plans to rebuild a primary school which was largely destroyed by fire are starting to take shape.

Just 20% of St James’ Primary Academy, on the Isle of Grain, was deemed usable after a blaze at the end of October last year.

In just seven days, The Williamson Trust, which is one of the school’s sponsors, was able to carry out work to bring parts of its nearby Allhallows Primary School into use as classrooms, as well as buy new tables and chairs, stationery and books and arrange for pupils to be bussed the four miles from Grain to Allhallows each day. Only the early years classes were able to continue on the site.

Plans are being drawn up for the new build and bosses hope it will be able to reopen in September.

In the school’s latest newsletter, head teacher Ruth Sivarajah writes: “It is an exciting time behind the scenes for the development of our new school.

Our thanks go to the members of The Diocese of Rochester for supporting us recently to form inventories of items we were unable to salvage in the remaining part of the school building.

“Many people took time out of their busy lives and work to support the school.

“Plans are currently being drawn up for the new build. We hope to provide you with further information in the near future and would like to thank you for your patience and continued support.”

An investigation into the fire has been concluded pending further information. No arrests have been made.