Helen Mann, the head teacher of Sytchampton Endowed First School in Worcestershire, has been found dead at the school. Her body was discovered at 16:20 GMT on Monday during a teacher training day, with no children present at the 90-pupil school.
The mother of two had taken up the post approximately six months ago. Her father-in-law, Kenneth Mann, told the Worcester News that the family understood she had taken her own life. He described her as "just the loveliest person" and said the family was "deeply shocked and saddened."
Police and ambulance staff attended the scene, but Mrs Mann was pronounced dead. West Mercia Police stated the death is being treated as unexplained but not believed to be suspicious, and a report will be prepared for the Worcestershire coroner.
Dr Stephanie Gait, chairwoman of governors, confirmed the passing and offered "deepest sympathy" to family, friends, and colleagues. The school, which caters for children aged five to nine, will reopen on Thursday, with support provided to staff and pupils by the local authority.
The school is located in the hamlet of Sytchampton, between Stourport-on-Severn and Ombersley, a close-knit community described by BBC reporter Ben Sidwell as deeply saddened and shocked by the death.
