Tributes are paid to ‘brilliant’ secondary school science teacher, 35, who has died from coronavirus
- Emma Clarke taught science at Ormiston Bolingbroke Academy in Runcorn
- Headmaster Tony Rawdin said he was ‘heartbroken’ by the ‘shocking’ news
- Ms Clarke had previously worked as a chemist and was ‘much loved’ by pupils
- Learn more about how to help people impacted by COVID
A ‘much loved and gifted’ science teacher has died aged 35 after it is thought she contracted Covid-19.
Emma Clarke, 35, who taught at Ormiston Bolingbroke Academy in Runcorn, Cheshire, died on Thursday.
She taught science and tutored children who were due to take their GCSE exams.
Seondary school science teacher and tutor Emma Clarke, 35, has died from coronavirus
Principal Tony Rawdin explained the tragedy to the school, and offered immediate help to pupils struggling with the ‘shocking and sad’ news. Speaking personally, he described himself as ‘heartbroken.’
In a letter to parents, he said: ‘We are very sorry to have to share the tragic news that Emma Clarke, a much-loved and gifted member of staff, sadly died yesterday seemingly after she contracted the coronavirus and became unwell.
‘All of our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with her family and loved ones at this difficult time.
‘Many of you will have known her, Emma was one of those people who everyone liked.
‘She was a brilliant science teacher and very popular with her pupils, not least her Year 11 tutor group, and her colleagues.
‘I know that this may come as a shock to you and that you and your children may be incredibly saddened.’
She taught at Ormiston Bolingbroke Academy in Runcorn, Cheshire and had been preparing pupils for their GCSEs
He said that staff and students would be able to remember Ms Clarke together when the academy reopens.
Mr Rawdin added: ‘For now, I speak for everyone connected with the school in saying that we will always remember Emma extremely fondly, and I am sure you will join me in sending our deepest condolences to Emma’s family at this difficult time.’
Ms Clarke had taught in Murdishaw for almost three years, and previously worked as a research chemist for a decade.
She gained her teaching qualification at Liverpool Hope University, obtaining an outstanding with merit qualification.
Emma also previously studied at the University of Leicester.
Mr Rawdin added: ‘When someone dies, young people may experience a range of different feelings such as sadness, anger and confusion – which are all normal.
‘As ever, Ormiston Bolingbroke Academy, will try to provide every support that we can to you and to our pupils.
‘Resources will be made available in the Tutor room of Google Classroom and students can access support here through the pastoral team.’
Mr Rawdin also suggested grieving pupils contact Childline for assistance.
People reacted with sadness to the news.
One woman said: ‘So sad, such a lovely person will be sadly missed, RIP Emma xx’
Another added: ‘Such sad news, my thoughts go out to family friends and all at Ormiston Bolingbroke Academy at this sad time.’