A 16-year-old boy has been charged with arson in connection with a significant fire that broke out in the atrium of the London Oratory School, a prestigious Catholic institution in west London.

The incident occurred on Wednesday at the 160-year-old school located on Seagrave Road in Fulham, known for its notable alumni, including politicians like Tony Blair and Nick Clegg.

The London Fire Brigade received reports of the blaze at approximately 10 a.m. Emergency services, including ten fire engines and over 70 firefighters, along with ambulance and police services, quickly responded to the scene.

The fire was brought under control, and no injuries were reported. However, part of the atrium, comprising four classrooms and a library, sustained fire-related damage. It was reported that all the books in the library were affected by the blaze.

The teenager, whose identity cannot be disclosed for legal reasons, is reportedly a student at the school, which caters to approximately 1,400 students.

The London Ambulance Service, also present at the scene, advised nearby residents to close their windows as a precaution.

The atrium, which became part of the school’s facilities in 2016, houses valuable educational resources and has been an essential space for students. The exact cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Local MP Greg Hands expressed concern over the incident and indicated his contact with the police regarding the matter. He noted an increased presence of helicopters in the area.

The London Oratory School has a distinguished reputation and is renowned for its educational excellence. Notable figures who have attended the institution include actor Simon Callow, trade unionist Mick Whelan, and the children of former Prime Minister Tony Blair, Harriet Harman, and former Deputy Prime Minister Sir Nick Clegg. The school is situated just a short distance from Stamford Bridge, the home stadium of Chelsea Football Club.