Pupils and staff reacted calmly to a fire at their school today and were never in danger, the headteacher has insisted.

Firefighters extinguished a fire in the kitchen of Howe Dell Primary School in The Runway today, but according to headteacher Debra Massey, staff ensured there was no panic.

She said: “There was an isolated fire in the school kitchen at Howe Dell School, which was quickly extinguished by the Herts Fire and Rescue Service.

“While this incident was taking place, we efficiently and calmly evacuated children and staff.

“Following advice from the fire service and the police, children and staff returned to the building.

“Children remained in a safe area downstairs while senior leaders from the school consulted with fire officers and Hertfordshire County Council.

“Parents at the school have been kept fully updated.”