‘Blessed are those who mourn for they will be comforted’ (Matthew 5:4) It is with great regret that I must share some sad news. Unfortunately, Mrs Thompson, Head of English, passed away in the early hours of Tuesday morning. This comes as an unexpected shock to us all. Although Mrs Thompson was ill prior to the Easter holidays, she was upbeat and positive, eager to return, worried about her classes and desperate to continue teaching her groups. Firstly, our thoughts, prayers and love go to Mrs Thompson’s family. Please pray for them. It is impossible to express the sense of loss and grief our school family will feel. I know that many staff and students were very close to Mrs Thompson. This news will be equally distressing to staff/students/families, both past and present, whom Mrs Thompson taught and cared for. Mrs Thompson was an outstanding teacher and had worked at St Edmund’s for over 14 years. She touched the lives of many, sharing her love of English and ensuring that our children had success in their studies. I am sure you can appreciate that this news will impact upon staff and students. We will need time to share, pray and reflect together. We will endeavour to celebrate Mrs Thompson’s life and all that she gave to our school family. Upon returning after Easter we will have a short reflection for each group and provide an opportunity for individual support if required. It is important that we share this sad news so that we can ourselves start processing this loss and come to terms with the shock. Having spoken with Mrs Thompson’s family they, like ourselves, want to celebrate how she touched and changed so many young peoples’ lives for the better. Peace I leave with you: My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.’ (John 14:27). Should you wish to contact the school to share your memories or have any questions please email the school on school@saintedmunds.org.uk. I will obviously share further details and information over the next few weeks. Mrs Thompson will be sadly missed, but will always be part of our family here at St Edmund’s. Mr Simon Graham - Headteacher