Students were halfway through their Business Studies paper when they were evacuated from the school’s multipurpose centre.

A 200-metre exclusion zone was established as the school was evacuated, with nearby roads closed. 

Seventeen firefighters spent three hours clearing gas that had pooled in a void under the multipurpose centre after leaking from a faulty heater.

NSW Fire and Rescue zone commander Roger Mentha said the gas could have exploded with the flick of a light switch.

“It could have been devastating,” he said.

He said the situation remained calm, however students were concerned about the possible danger.

South Coast MP Shelley Hancock said she was “very disappointed” for the Ulladulla High School students who were evacuated during their HSC exams following the gas leak at the school.

“I have been advised by the Board of Studies, Teaching and Educational Standards NSW that it is in discussion with Ulladulla High School about an Illness/Misadventure group application for students,” she said.

“Surely given the circumstances, the case for Misadventure is strong and marks will be based not only on school assessments, but students’ overall performance. 

“I am assured by the board students will receive a fair and consistent end mark.

“I encourage all students at Ulladulla High School, particularly those currently undertaking HSC exams to continue the necessary studies for the remaining exams.”