Dear Parents/Carers,

It is with great regret and sadness that I am writing to inform you of the death of Joseph in Year 2.

We as a school are very saddened by this news and our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.

Our main aim in school today has been to provide support to the staff and children by ensuring that the usual routines are in place and by maintaining a calm atmosphere. We have shared the sad news with the children within their classes this morning. We have given children time to talk, ask questions and process what has happened. The expression of feelings resulting from bereavement is an essential part of the grieving process and support is in place to assist the pupils with this.

During this difficult time we are being supported by the Educational Psychology Service in school and this help will continue as necessary during the coming days.

Please refer to our loss and bereavement page on our website. This will help you to support your children with questions and feelings they may have. The Winston’s wish and Child bereavement UK links are particularly helpful.

https://www.southparade.wakefield.sch.uk/loss-and-bereavement/

South Ossett Baptist Church have informed us that they will be open from 1:00 – 5:00pm today for anyone who wishes to go and light a candle for Joseph.

As always, we will look after each other and offer care and support to all of our children and families.

Mrs Hedges