CHILDREN starting in Year 7 at the newly named John Frost school will be unable to start a day early as planned, because of building works.

Year 7 pupils normally start a day earlier than other students, in order to acclimatise to their new surroundings. Instead of Friday, September 2 the pupils will now be starting on Monday, September 5 alongside returning pupils.

A John Frost school spokesman said: "The school apologises for any inconvenience caused and wanted to go ahead with arrangements which have worked well in the past.

"However, the overrunning of pile driving work on the site has meant this is not possible on health and safety grounds.

"We are sending a letter explaining this to all parents.

"We are, however, able to cater for the older sixth form students who can be contained in one part of Building 3."

Some parents have expressed their frustration at the decision. Andy James wrote on the school's Facebook page: "What happened to 'easing the new students in'? Not helping with the transition for the new pupils. Hats off to another ludicrous decision."

Tracy Edwards wrote: "Not helping Year 7s making the transition smoothly. It's worrying enough for them as it, without the rest of the school being there on the first day."

Duffryn High School will be renamed from September 2016 honouring one of the city’s most famous sons.