A SCHOOL is in mourning today following the death of a 14-year-old pupil.

Youngsters at Lytchett Minster School were in shock as the news spread last night.

Stuart Clark, head teacher of the school in Post Green Road - locally known as The Manor - confirmed the boy, Jamie Bishop, had died in "tragic circumstances" on Wednesday evening.

He said yesterday: "Talking to the police this afternoon they had not confirmed the cause of death, but I believe he died in tragic circumstances."

Mr Clark said pupils would receive appropriate counselling and he would release a statement today. He said he did not wish to say more until he had been able to speak to the pupils and staff.

The news of the tragedy was broken to year 10 pupils yesterday.

The whole school was expected to be called together today.

Lytchett Minster and Upton district councillor Andrew Starr said: "It will be a dreadful shock to a school community - a school that has in the past had a very happy relationship with its students.

"Whatever the reasons, it will be a great shock to everyone at the school and everybody will be desperately sorry for the family."

Lytchett Minster School prides itself on its academic reputation and extracurricular opportunities.

In an introductory statement on the school's website, Mr Clark says the pastoral support at the school "ensures that students are known and treated as individuals".

He writes that the school works "in close partnership with parents to ensure that children are happy and successful at the school".

First published: Oct 1