Adelaide school targeted in deliberate arson attack

Part of a school's gymnasium and canteen in Adelaide's eastern suburbs has been destroyed by an arson attack. 

Fire crews were called to the St Francis of Assisi school in Newton around 11pm last night.

Police say the deliberately-lit fire began in a bin, before it spread to a wall and roof space of a nearby gym and canteen complex.

The suspicious fire has devastated the tight-knight school community.

"It's disappointing when school gets interrupted," Steve Genesin from Catholic Education said.

"It's shocking, absolutely shocking and disgusting," one parent told 9NEWS.

"It's just ridiculous," another said.

The school's operation won't be affected, apart from the closure of the area surrounding the crime scene.

"Unfortunately for us, it's happened towards the end of term." Mr Genesin said.

School management says the building was relatively new, constructed in the last four to five years.

"We always ask for neighbours and passers-by to be vigilant about strange activity," Mr Genesin said.

Detectives attended the scene this morning and are asking anyone with information to come forward.