I was saddened to hear the story of Cardinal Newman school closing because of swarming bees (The Argus, July 24).

This is not a moment for alarm but for education.

Swarming bees are docile and exhibit very low aggression compared with when they protect their hive entrance.

Swarming bees do not chase people in a cartoon manner, ever. Unlike bees feeding on flowers, wasps and hornets are generally aggressive and will sting as they fly around looking for food.

Bees are essential. For an example of good practice, take a look at Charlton Manor primary school in Greenwich. When they had a swarm in the playground, they hived the bees and turned them into a phenomenal education project, training under-tens to be beekeepers, design jar labels and set up a honey shop.

There are many other examples of schools which have done the same.

This does not dismiss the need to be cautious if you are allergic to bees but a swarm on a “nearby building” seems a poor excuse to shut a school.

Mikey Tomkins, Laughton Lodge, Lewes

I think Cardinal Newman had every right to close in light of the bee situation.

The pupils were due to end the term the next day at 1pm.

This could have been very serious had someone suffered an anaphylactic reaction due to a bee sting.

I think Karen Slyfield [founder of Sussex Mums quoted in the story] is unnecessarily harsh on Dr Kilmartin’s decision.

There is not “always” an excuse for sending pupils home – the last time was back in the winter due to snow.

I am a mother of a pupil at Cardinal Newman and know he is old enough to come home without me having to organise child care for him.

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