Mould problems at a middle school were mostly caused by poor maintenance, an assessment has found.

The news came after an assessment was carried out last month after staff and pupils raised concerns about mould at TN Tatem Middle School in Warwick.

The Department of Education said that the results substantiated the findings outlined in a health and safety inspection report for the school completed in October 2018.

The department said the problems included water leaks, windows that would not open, inappropriate storage, an accumulation of waste, inadequate housekeeping and faulty mechanical systems.

A department spokeswoman added: “Water leaks and mechanical systems will be addressed in the months to come.”

She added the report said that staff should open windows for 30 minutes to an hour every day.

The spokeswoman added: “Old papers, cardboard boxes and other outdated items no longer in use must be discarded and staff must ensure that items are stored appropriately.

“These actions, along with routine and regular cleaning of rooms, cupboards and cabinet drawers will also play a major role in preventing mould and indoor air-quality issues.

“We can confirm that the TN Tatem Safety and Health Committee, along with staff at the school, have already begun to take action to rectify health and safety matters that fall under their purview.”

The department confirmed that work started at TN Tatem on February 5 and that cleaning and repairs to a science room closed since the start of the 2018-19 school year had been completed.