AN EIGHT-YEAR-OLD pupil has tragically died after suffering a medical episode at Penrhys Primary School near Tylorstown, Rhondda Cynon Taf.
Emergency services were called to the school shortly after 2:00pm on Wednesday (Oct 8). The child was taken to hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.
South Wales Police confirmed there were no suspicious circumstances, and an investigation is being carried out on behalf of the coroner.
The small community school, which has around seventy pupils, was closed on Thursday (Oct 9) following the incident. In a post on Facebook, the school said: “Due to the traumatic event that happened at our lovely school this afternoon, we will be closed for all children tomorrow.” It added that the school would reopen on Friday.
Gaynor Davies, Director of Education and Inclusion Services at Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, said the year four pupil was “a cherished member of her close-knit school community and will be deeply missed by everyone.”
She added: “I want to thank school staff who administered first aid until paramedics arrived to take over and transport her to hospital, where sadly, she later passed away.”
Flowers have since been placed at the school gates in tribute to the child.
Local councillor Julie Edwards said she was aware of the “tragic incident” and urged people not to speculate while police enquiries continue.
South Wales Police said the investigation is ongoing on behalf of HM Coroner.
