Asbestos was discovered in classroom ceiling tiles

Parents and guardians of pupils at Maesgwyn Special School in Cwmdare have been told to keep their children home from school following the discovery.

Tests have shown the levels of asbestos are below the maximum level allowed.

But a programme of work is under way to remove the asbestos in order to ensure the safety of the pupils and staff.

Letters have been sent to the parents and guardians of the 108 pupils aged between 11 and 18 explaining the situation in detail.

A spokesman for Rhondda Cynon Taf Council said material containing asbestos was discovered in some of the ceiling tiles during a survey.

We aim to remove the asbestos...with as little disruption to pupils and staff as possible Rhondda Cynon Taf council

"Air quality tests have since been carried out in a cross section of areas at the school," the spokesman added.

"All tests results so far have confirmed the level of asbestos fibres present is below the maximum threshold limit to comply with Health and Safety guidelines.

"However, the school is temporarily closed to pupils as a precautionary measure and further investigation is required to determine when the school can re-open for pupils."

He said a series of meetings had been held between council officers, contractors, staff, governors and unions, with more discussions expected.