summer holidays -- for the second time in two years.

The delay comes after workmen found the roof of a school building needed replacing.

Now staff are rushed off their feet trying to reorganise classrooms.

The school's reopening date has been put back from next Tuesday to September 13.

Education Minister the Hon. Clarence Terceira plans visiting the school this morning. Yesterday he said: "The entire roof was found to be rotten and needed removing.

"We have decided to bite the bullet and replace the roof.'' He added: "We have decided to go ahead with work in the interests of safety.'' The upstairs of the two-floor building -- holding 11 classrooms and a staff room -- will be cleared for the overhaul.

Workers are likely to take up to eight weeks to complete the job.

Dr. Terceira appealed for understanding from parents and pupils.

"I am asking for their co-operation, and am grateful for their co-operation.'' It was in September, 1991, staff and parents faced a similar delay to reopening to allow for repairs.

This latest problem, which came to light during routine patching of the roof, was a shock to staff.

The school consists of several old Army barracks more than 100 feet long.

Dr. Terceira said the slate roof which needed replacing had a wooden framework, and was a victim of the wear and tear of time. It had been up over 100 years and was part of the original building, he added.

Dr. Terceira said staff were now busy transferring equipment to other classrooms. He pointed out the downstairs of the building would still be in use.

Last night headmaster Mr. Dale Butler said the school had had "a lot of experience'' with delays and disruption.

Storms, including Hurricane Emily, had been to blame.

And in September, 1991, the reopening date was also delayed because of renovations. "We were saddened by this latest disruption. It came as something of a surprise,'' said Mr. Butler.

He said parents would learn about the delay today.

He added 11 classrooms would have to be moved elsewhere.

"It will mean some doubling up, but we will do our best not to disrupt students' education.''