Classes were called off at CedarBridge Academy today after teachers staged a "sick out" in protest at the school environment and its alleged effect on staff and students' health.

A large number of teachers called in sick, forcing the Ministry of Education to close the Island's largest public school. The action is the latest disturbance to hit the school since it was temporarily shut down by Education Minister Randy Horton last November due to mould contamination.

The school grounds were deserted this morning with just a handful of cars parked there. Officials from the Ministry of Health, including Chief Medical Officer Dr. John Cann, arrived just before 9 a.m. and entered the building before the doors were shut to the Press.

The Devonshire senior school reopened in January following a $3.8 million clean-up but complaints of poor air quality and dampness causing ill health have persisted. Last month, about 150 students staged a protest outside the premises, refusing to enter the building.

Today's action by teachers is understood to be in support of a female colleague currently being treated in America for chronic nose, ear and throat infections. A friend and colleague of the woman - who asked not to be named - told The Royal Gazette that Government's employee medical insurance scheme had refused to pay out for some tests and treatment, meaning she may have to foot a medical bill for thousands of dollars.

"The teachers have come out in support of her because her ordeal is so traumatic but also in support of other teachers who have fallen so ill," said the source.

The Ministry of Education sent out a statement at 9.04 a.m. confirming the cancellation of classes due to "a large number of staff absences".

"The public will be further updated later today," it said. "The Ministry regrets the inconvenience this has caused."

* For full story and reaction see tomorrow's edition of The Royal Gazette.