Mindless vandals smashed up an Oxford school, causing 10,000 pounds-worth of damage.

Windows and doors were smashed, computers were turned upside down and a television was pushed over at Cheney Upper School in Cheney Lane on Wednesday night.

Excrement was smeared on the floor, cupboards were pulled off the wall and a vending machine was broken into and chocolate bars taken. The damage was caused in a block containing science laboratories, maths classrooms, offices and a gym. Nothing was taken, apart from the chocolate.

Alan Band, the school bursar, said: "There is quite a bit of damage but no graffiti, which we found surprising. Everybody feels sick about it."

Deputy headteacher Janet Minot added: "I am very shocked and concerned about the extra work that it will cause for staff this summer. It hits you when you walk in. It is vandalism rather than theft. This is a fairly isolated incident of this scale. I don't think we have a problem significantly greater than anywhere else. This is not a school problem. It could well be outsiders who are involved."

Oxfordshire County Council insures Cheney School and will pay the bill for the damage.

A police spokesman said: "This was a mindless act by the individuals concerned and they should be thoroughly ashamed of their act. This is the first act of vandalism in a school this summer. This is a warning that we need to keep an eye on schools over the holidays. We would urge anyone who knows anything about this to come forward."

Call Oxford police on 01865 266000 if you can help catch the culprits.