A college has been left reeling after two students from the same year group tragically passed away on the same day in separate incidents.
The devastating events occurred on Monday, July 7. Horndean Technology College in Hampshire, where the pupils attended, confirmed that both incidents took place off school premises and were “unrelated” to each other.
Although the students have not been named, they have been described as “valued members of HTC”. In a statement posted on the school’s official Facebook page, the college shared more details about the heartbreaking news and revealed that it is considering how to best remember and celebrate the lives of both students.
The post read: “We are sad to share with you that two of our Year 9 students passed away on Monday 7 July, in unrelated incidents outside of College. We are saddened by this news and know that the community naturally will be too. Both students were valued members of HTC, and we will all miss them greatly.”
The school said that the students’ families and fellow pupils have been informed and are being offered support.
The statement continued: “Our thoughts are with their families and friends, and they are receiving appropriate support.
“We have shared the news with our students. We understand that families will want to support their children through this extremely difficult time and below we have provided some links to useful resources to help in conversations.
“The Revd Richard Hutchins, Vicar of the United Benefice of Catherington and Clanfield from the local parish church will arrange tealights for individuals to light and set up a prayer tree for people to add their prayers. The church will stay open over the next few days for those seeking a quiet place.
“For all those residing on the eastern side of Horndean, Holy Trinity (Blendworth) is also open for quiet reflection and tea lights will be accessible for the next few days. Revd Richard and I will collaborate to assist those in need,” stated Revd. Joy Windsor (paragraph added to article at 6:30pm).
“In due course, we will contemplate how best to commemorate and celebrate both students’ lives within the College, and we will provide updates on this when appropriate. HTC will gladly accept flowers and expressions of condolence at the main Reception this week.”
The circumstances surrounding the deaths of the two students remain undisclosed at this time.
Hampshire Police have been approached for comment.
