‘Much-loved’ science teacher, 35, dies after catching coronavirus

Emma Clarke, 35, was said to be 'very popular with her pupils' in Ormiston Bolingbroke Academy in Runcorn.

A ‘much-loved’ science teacher who was ‘very popular with her pupils’ has died aged 35 after contracting coronavirus, according to colleagues.

Emma Clarke, who taught at Ormiston Bolingbroke Academy in Runcorn, Cheshire, passed away on Thursday.

Principal Tony Rawdin said help was being offered to pupils to cope with the ‘shocking’ news, and that he was personally ‘devastated’.

In a letter to parents, he wrote: ‘We are very sorry to have to share the tragic news that Emma Clarke, a much-loved and gifted member of staff, sadly died yesterday seemingly after she contracted the coronavirus and became unwell.

‘All of our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with her family and loved ones at this difficult time.

‘Many of you will have known her, Emma was one of those people who everyone liked.

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‘She was a brilliant science teacher and very popular with her pupils, not least her Year 11 tutor group, and her colleagues.

‘I know that this may come as a shock to you and that you and your children may be incredibly saddened.’

Emma previously taught for three years in Murdishaw and was a research chemist for almost 10 years before that.

As well as teaching science lessons she tutored pupils ahead of their GCSE exams.

Mr Rawdin said staff and pupils would be able to remember her together once the school reopens, and that pastoral resources were available online through Google Classroom in the meantime.

He added: ‘For now, I speak for everyone connected with the school in saying that we will always remember Emma extremely fondly, and I am sure you will join me in sending our deepest condolences to Emma’s family at this difficult time.’

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