An eight-year-old girl has died after a medical episode at Penrhys Primary School in Ferndale, Rhondda. South Wales Police were called to the school just after 2pm on Wednesday, October 8, following reports of the pupil suffering a medical emergency. She was taken to hospital but later died.
Police have confirmed there are no suspicious circumstances and an investigation on behalf of the coroner is now under way. The school has been closed to all pupils on Thursday, October 9, following what the head teacher described as a 'traumatic event'. It is expected to reopen on Friday.
In a Facebook post, the head teacher thanked parents for their messages of support and confirmed the closure. Local councillor Julie Edwards urged residents not to speculate to prevent misinformation. Gaynor Davies, director of education at Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, expressed heartfelt sympathies to the girl's family and praised school staff who administered first aid.
The educational psychology and learner support service will provide support to pupils and staff as they come to terms with the loss.
