Investigation under way after night-time attack on school grounds
Oasis Academy Clarksfield on Grasmere Road in Oldham was targeted by vandals on the evening of Friday 24 July, the school has confirmed. Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said they were called to reports of criminal damage and that inquiries are ongoing.
According to a statement from the school's headteacher, Mrs Howard, witnesses described a group of teenagers who gained access by cutting through the perimeter fence and breaking a gate lock. Once inside, those responsible are accused of deliberately damaging play equipment and property across the school site.
"We are saddened to share that our school has been targeted by vandals this evening... The damage is estimated to be hundreds if not thousands of pounds."
What was damaged
- Playground equipment shattered
- Sheds forced open and damaged
- Toys smashed and basketball hoops broken
- Planters overturned
- Offensive words chalked on the playground
The headteacher said CCTV covering the affected areas is being reviewed and any relevant footage has already been provided to GMP to assist the police investigation. The school has described some of the language scrawled on the playground as too offensive for social media.
Local impact and response
School leaders warned that the cost of repairs could run to hundreds if not thousands of pounds, placing pressure on school budgets and diverting staff time during the summer period. The incident will be distressing for pupils, families and staff who use the grounds for learning and play.
In her statement the headteacher appealed directly to the wider community, urging parents and carers to check whether their teenagers were at home on the night in question and to discuss the incident with them. GMP reiterated that the incident is being treated as criminal damage and trespass.
Quick summary
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Oasis Academy Clarksfield, Grasmere Road, Oldham |
| Date | Friday 24 July 2026 (reported to police same evening) |
| Suspects | Described by witnesses as teenagers |
| Reported damage | Play equipment, sheds, toys, basketball hoops, planters; offensive graffiti |
| Estimated repair cost | "Hundreds if not thousands of pounds" |
Anyone with information that may assist the investigation has been asked to contact Greater Manchester Police. The school continues to review CCTV and will work with police as enquiries progress.
