Bavita Gupta and her seven-year-old daughter, Jyot Dhillon, were devastated by the images of the buildings engulfed in flames.

“We are all just wondering how this could have happened,” she said. 

“It’s heartbreaking because it is one of the best schools we have in Wagga.” 

Jyot reacted to the news with tears and immediately wanted to go to school and Ms Gupta said it was a hard situation to explain. 

Ms Gupta is originally from India and, with no extended family, said the school had become a second home and family for them. 

“My daughter has made such good friends at school and her teachers and the principal are all amazing,” she said. 

Classrooms, offices and a toilet block were destroyed after the fire engulfed the historic building. 

“When we told Jyot, she wanted to go to the school and see what had happened because she was so upset,” Ms Gupta said. 

“When we showed her the photos of the damage she was pointing out the spots that she associated with.” 

Ms Gupta said she and her daughter were relieved that no one was hurt. 

“If our family can do anything for the school then we are more than happy to give a hand,” she said. 

Local historian Sherry Morris said the school has played a crucial role in educating children. 

“It forms an important part of Wagga City’s history,” she said. 

Ms Morris said in 1861, the public school opened on what was known as Little Gurwood Street. 

Due to overcrowding and flooding dangers, the school was moved to Gurwood Street in 1872. 

Ms Morris said the foundation stone was laid on October 4, 1871, and it was opened by the Chief Justice Alfred Stephens and he said: “I now declare the foundation stone of this public school well and truly laid”. 

Wagga Police Inspector Peter Macleay spoke to media on Monday and said investigations are ongoing. 

“I am not prepared to speculate on causes, that is a matter for the coroner,” he said. 

“The damage is estimated to be in the vicinity of $500,000 to $1 million.” 

A NSW Education Department spokesperson said temporary buildings will be installed. 

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