A Darlington sixth form college is in mourning after an 18-year-old student died on campus this week. Emergency services were called to Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College on Tuesday afternoon following serious welfare concerns.
Emergency Response and Tragic Outcome
Durham Constabulary confirmed officers were dispatched to the college on Vane Terrace at approximately 1:30pm on Tuesday, January 13. The police response was triggered by reports expressing concern for the welfare of a young man at the educational institution.
Despite the immediate efforts of college staff and emergency service personnel, the teenager was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have stated that his death is not being treated as suspicious. A file is now being prepared for HM Coroner.
College Community in Shock
In an official statement, Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College expressed profound sorrow. "We are very sorry to inform you that an 18-year-old member of the College community passed away whilst at College yesterday afternoon," the statement read. The college extended its heartfelt sympathies to the student's family and friends.
Specialist support services have been made available at the college for students and staff affected by the tragic incident. In communication to parents and guardians, the college described the event as an "isolated incident".
Disruption and Ongoing Support
The college took the significant step of cancelling all lessons and sporting fixtures on Wednesday, January 14, to allow the community time to process the event and access support. A small number of scheduled public examinations were the only activities to proceed as planned.
The college confirmed it is working closely with relevant agencies in the aftermath of the tragedy. Police have confirmed that the teenager's family have been informed and are receiving support from specialist officers.
This devastating event has cast a shadow over the start of the new term at the college, which counts Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer among its past visitors. The entire educational community is now rallying to support those grieving this sudden and profound loss.
