A secondary school in North Wales will close its doors to pupils next week to allow staff to pay their final respects to a teaching assistant found murdered near local football fields.
School Closure Announced for Funeral
Rhyl High School has confirmed it will not be open to students on Friday, 12 December 2025. The closure is to enable staff to attend the funeral of Angela Shellis, a 45-year-old teaching assistant at the school who was found dead in October.
Headteacher Philip Collins has written to parents informing them of the decision, which was supported by the school's Governing Body and the Local Authority. He stated the move was "a mark of respect to Ms. Shellis and her family".
Tragic Discovery and Criminal Charge
Angela Shellis, a mother from Prestatyn, was discovered deceased near football fields in Prestatyn on Friday, 24 October. The circumstances surrounding her death led to a murder investigation by North Wales Police.
Her 18-year-old son, Tristan Thomas Roberts, of Coniston Drive in Prestatyn, has been charged with her murder. A trial related to the case is scheduled to take place next year.
An inquest opened last month heard that Ms Shellis died as a result of a blunt force head injury.
A Caring Colleague Remembered
In a tribute issued after her death, Headteacher Philip Collins described Angela Shellis as a "caring and committed" member of staff. She had joined the Rhyl High School team in 2023.
"We are deeply upset as a school community and hold Angela's family and friends foremost in our thoughts, as they try to come to terms with their loss," Mr Collins said previously.
Her family released a statement saying she was a "loved daughter, sister, mum and aunty and will be sadly missed".
Arrangements for the School Day
In his letter to parents, Mr Collins acknowledged the closure would impact childcare for some families but hoped the advance notice would allow for appropriate arrangements.
On the day of the funeral:
- Pupils will be able to access work online via Google Classrooms.
- Children entitled to free school meals can collect a grab bag from the school site.
The headteacher concluded his communication by thanking the school community for their support during what he called "a challenging time for the school".
