Nuneaton school fully operational after recovery from cyber attack
Lessons at Higham Lane School resume as IT systems are rebuilt following severe disruption
Higham Lane School in Nuneaton has returned to full operation with all students back to class after the severe cyber attack that caused significant disruption in January.
The school reopened its doors on 19th January, following two weeks of closure due to the damage caused by the cyber incident.
The cyber attack affected essential systems, including electronic gates, fire alarms, and IT infrastructure, leading to the initial closure of the school. Staff worked tirelessly throughout the closure, including weekends and evenings, to rebuild key systems and ensure the site was safe for students to return.
Headteacher Phil Kelly expressed gratitude to everyone who supported the recovery efforts:
“This has been an exceptionally challenging time, but the teamwork from our staff, IT professionals, and colleagues across the Multi Academy Trust has been extraordinary.
"We're proud to see the school back to running smoothly, despite the difficulties posed by the attack."
The Department for Education and police assisted the recovery process, and security experts praised the school for its quick response and effective solutions following the incident.
Since reopening, students have returned to their full timetables under a week B schedule. Although IT systems remain limited, the school has adapted lessons to ensure education continues smoothly.
Year 11 trial examinations proceeded successfully during the first week back and have now concluded, and all year groups are now fully engaged in normal lessons.
Staff have been proactive in supporting students, particularly those with SEND and those needing extra assistance, as they settle back into routines.
The safeguarding and pastoral teams, along with counsellors and behaviour support staff, have coordinated efforts to help students transition to normal school life.
Mr Kelly reminded parents that expectations, including uniform rules, punctuality, and behaviour standards, were reinstated upon reopening.
“Our focus is now on providing the best possible education experience for our students, while also recovering from the residual effects of the attack,” he said.
The school continues to rebuild its IT infrastructure, with progress being made daily. While communication remains difficult, parents and carers are advised to limit contact with the school for general enquiries due to non-working landline telephones.
Mr Kelly said the Higham Lane School community remains committed to overcoming the challenges posed by the cyber attack:
“This has truly been a team effort of resilience and determination to get our school back on track, and the response from our students, staff, parents, and carers has been incredible.”