A school will be starting its new term six days late after it was targeted in a cyber-attack.

Parents were informed that the Highgate Wood School, in Montenotte Road, has become a victim of an attack that has prevented the school from accessing systems.

As a result, the start of the Crouch End secondary school's term next Tuesday (September 5) has been delayed to September 11. The school has around 1,500 pupils aged 11 to 16.

Headteacher Patrick Cozier told parents in an email seen by the Ham&High: “Having carried out investigations, we are extremely confident that our data has not been breached.

“With the help of Haringey Council, London Grid for Learning and other external experts in the field of cyber security, we’re doing everything to get our systems and functionality back up and running as swifty and securely as possible.”

Assistant headteacher Tristan Ashman has confirmed that the email is legitimate.

Mr Cozier said the system needs to be rebuilt to ensure there is not a renewed threat.

He continued: “We sincerely apologise for any disruption and inconvenience this may cause you and your family and thank you for your patience, support and understanding at this time as we work through these IT issues.”

Haringey Council has confirmed no other schools in the borough has been affected by the attack.