In response to the devastating fire that destroyed a historic building at Questelles Government School on December 29, 2025, the Ministry of Education has implemented comprehensive psychological support measures for affected students as the new term commenced on January 5, 2026.
Education Minister Phillip Jackson announced the deployment of additional counselors to assist students coping with the trauma during a special assembly marking the beginning of Term II. The 114-year-old elementary school lost its oldest instructional block in the blaze, displacing Grades 5 and 6 students who have been temporarily relocated to Campden Park Secondary School.
“We have mobilized our counseling resources within the school system to provide immediate psychosocial support,” Minister Jackson stated. “The principal has confirmed that our local counselor will collaborate with community pastors from surrounding villages to deliver essential pastoral care to help students readjust.”
The government has established an ambitious timeline for complete restoration, targeting Term III for the return of all students to their original campus. Minister Jackson revealed that ministry officials activated emergency response protocols within minutes of the fire incident, working through the night with local MP Nigel Stephenson to develop a comprehensive relocation strategy.
Minister Stephenson, who holds the infrastructure and transport portfolio, pledged that the reconstructed facility would emerge “better, stronger and bigger” than before, potentially becoming a model institution for the nation. The government has arranged dedicated transportation services, securing a new bus to shuttle students between Questelles and their temporary campus in Campden Park.
Addressing safety concerns at the temporary location, Stephenson acknowledged the hazardous traffic conditions in the area, noting collaborative efforts with the Traffic Department to install speed bumps and implement additional safety measures.
School principal Donnette Ferdinand emphasized the institution’s resilience, expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support from community organizations and religious institutions. Drawing inspiration from biblical scripture (Isaiah 43:2), Ferdinand affirmed the school community’s determination to overcome adversity through faith and collective strength.