PLANS are being put in place for pupils from Peebles High to be taught at alternative locations in the town as well as Galashiels.

The 1200 students were due to return to the classrooms today (Tuesday) following the St Andrew's long weekend.

But due to the extent of fire damage at the secondary, it won't reopen until after Christmas.

Support plans are being drawn up with particular attention being given to pupils who have forthcoming prelim exams.

A spokesman for the local authority told us: "Work has been ongoing over the weekend and Monday to put in place plans to provide specialist support for pupils this week and ensure the council maximises the opportunities to continue learning and provide specific support for students preparing for prelim exams.

"This will continue on Tuesday and an update will be provided to pupils, parents and carers.

"We expect to be able to put in place face-to-face teaching for all year groups from next Monday.

"We are exploring all options for accommodating pupils in alternative locations, including within Peebles and Galashiels.

"Arrangements to provide specialist support to pupils this week through drop-in sessions and telephone support are being finalised."

Pupils are being encouraged to use Show My Homework App, Scholar and Glow to work from home during the rest of this week.

Council convenor David Parker, Convener has praised the work of the emergency services as well as the community.

He told us: "This has been a devastating incident for Peebles High School’s pupils and staff and the local community.

“Without the magnificent efforts of firefighters, it could have been significantly worse in terms of damage to the school estate.

“Crews worked tirelessly to contain the fire for almost 24 hours, with up to 70 firefighters on the scene, highlighting the extent of the fire.

“During and in the aftermath of this challenging incident, the community of Peebles has also stepped forward to support the emergency services and the school.

“During the overnight fire we saw local people providing food, soup and hot drinks to the crews, while a local church opened its doors to pupils and staff and a local supermarket provided them with food.

“We have also seen offers of assistance from businesses, including a local hotel who has agreed to host Peebles High’s senior dance this week.

“On behalf of the council, I thank all who have provided generous support during this extremely difficult incident for Peebles community.”