SMOKE filled a school kitchen after an electrical explosion knocked out the heating, lighting and computer network.

The fire broke out in the electrical intake room at Langley Park School for Girls, Hawksbrook Lane, Beckenham, at about 11am on March 16.

The school was evacuated immediately after kitchen staff next door raised the alarm as smoke poured into the room.

No-one was injured in the blaze, which was attended by three fire appliances.

Headteacher Jan Sage said: "The staff response was very prompt and efficient.

"We've had electrical contractors working flat out but at the moment we can't even begin to calculate the cost of the damage.

"We are working hard to establish the cause and make sure it does not happen again."

The school was reopened on March 23.

All essential appliances at the school are up and running again.

Miss Sage said: "We are doing everything we can to make up for lost time and make sure we focus completely on teaching and learning."

She added the school would minimise visits and outings to ensure continuity and allow the students to catch up with their work.