Vandals repeatedly target Sunderland school for autistic children throwing bottles and rocks

The Harry Watts Academy, in Ramilies Road in Hylton Red House, is due to open to students after the February half-term as its 40 pupils make the move from the former Harraton Primary site in Washington.

But as the launch date nears, the team say it has been the target of frequent incidents, with rocks and bottles thrown most nights.

A security worker was narrowly missed by a glass bottle last week, while builders working on the site previously came under fire.

The latest incident happened at the weekend, when paving slabs were thrown at the windows and doors.

The school, which will take 96 children, is working hard to ensure it is ready to welcome its pupils, but are concerned the damage will lead to a set back.

A spokesperson for the Prosper Learning Trust, which is in charge of the academy, said: “We don't think the local community know what the building is going to be used for, which might be why we are experiencing quite a lot of vandalism.

"The head teacher only got the keys on December 18 for our new school but we're worried further vandalism might delay us moving in.”

The academy added school’s leaders have been working tirelessly to ensure a smooth transition for the children when they move in.

The spokesperson added: “They have created a warm, welcoming and supportive school community and have already received lovely feedback from parents on how well their children have settled into their new school.

"We just want them all to feel safe in the new building when they move in in February.”

The incidents have been reported to Northumbria Police.

A force spokesperson said: “Shortly before 8.30pm yesterday, Sunday, January 10, we received a report of criminal damage at Harry Watts Academy in Sunderland.

“It was reported that a group of males were throwing stones and pieces of concrete over the fence at the windows of the building.

“Intentional acts of criminal damage are totally unacceptable and enquiries are ongoing into the incident.

"Anyone with information is asked to contact us via the Tell Us Something page of our website or by calling 101 quoting log 874 100121.”

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