Moyles Court School closes as travellers camp on field

The headteacher of Moyles Court School in Ringwood said he had “serious concern” for the welfare of the students after the unauthorised camp was set up in a field just opposite the private school.

Dozens of travellers arrived at the site on Wednesday, May 24, when it was reported that some tried to enter a playing field while students were on it.

While a maths exam at the school was able to go ahead, students and parents were soon informed of its closure for the rest of the week before the half term break.

Moyles Court School in Ringwood (Image: NQ)

School head Richard Milner-Smith told the Echo: “We had the travellers arrive yesterday afternoon during school times and at one point they looked like they were attempting to get onto our sports field while some of our students were on it.

“This was of course serious concern for us as we must put the safety of our students first.

“We had to make that difficult decision over what is best for our students and parents, and we decided it was best to close the school.”

Mr Milner-Smith praised police for their quick response to the situation, but expressed disappointment at the disruption caused to the students – many of whom have upcoming GCSE exams.

Travellers in a field opposite Moyles Court School (Image: Newsquest)

He added: “When you have to close a school it is incredibly disruptive.

“We very much hope to reopen as normal after the half term break.”

A Hampshire police spokesperson said: “We have been made aware of an unauthorised encampment on Moyles Court in Ringwood just after 3.30pm yesterday afternoon (Wednesday, May 24).

“Officers will continue to monitor the situation and work closely with the landowners, and local partners, in order to seek a suitable resolution.”