UK faculty shuts after ‘much-loved’ employees member dies all of a sudden on website

Nexus School in Tonbridge, Kent, has closed today (May 12) after a ‘valued and much loved’ member of staff died on campus yesterday evening following a medical episode

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A school has closed today following the death of a “valued member” of staff on site yesterday evening. Scott Jarred, executive headteacher of Nexus School in Tonbridge, made a heartfelt announcement and expressed gratitude to parents for their “compassion, understanding and continued support at this very difficult time”.

Late last night at 11.25pm, the foundation special school, which caters for around 296 pupils aged two to 19 with profound, severe and complex needs, informed via email and Facebook that it would need to close but planned to reopen on Wednesday.

This morning, Mr Jarred was able to provide further details as numerous parents sought information about what had transpired at the Upper Haysden Lane school, serving families in Tonbridge and the broader Kent region, reports Kent Live.

In his email, Mr Jarred stated: “It is with great sadness that I share the news that Colin Jewhurst, a valued member of our site team, sadly passed away at school yesterday evening following a medical episode.

“Colin had been part of the Nexus community for over seven years and was a much-loved member of staff. He was always ready to help others, with a smile on his face, and a kind, supportive presence around the school.”

Mr Jarred extended his apologies to parents and families for the “late decision” to close the school today. He stated: “As it was not possible to inform all staff of this tragic news last night, today has understandably been a significant shock for the whole school community.

“We felt it was important to give staff the time and space to process this sad loss, support one another, and begin to mourn.”

Mr Jarred mentioned that staff would be dedicating time in some classes on Wednesday, assisting students in comprehending what had transpired as many of them had “very positive friendships with Colin”.

The school will resume normal operations tomorrow (Wednesday). KentLive has reached out to the emergency services.

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