Tragedy at St Wilfrid's RC College as pupil dies following medical emergency
Pupil dies after medical emergency at Newcastle school

A secondary school in Newcastle is in mourning today after a pupil tragically died following a medical emergency on the premises.

Major Emergency Response at School

Emergency services, including police, road ambulance crews, and the Great North Air Ambulance Service, were called to St Wilfrid's RC College shortly after 9:15 am on Wednesday, December 18, 2025. The significant response was triggered by reports of a serious medical incident involving an individual at the school.

Paramedics from the North East Ambulance Service and officers from Northumbria Police remained at the scene throughout the morning to provide assistance. Access to the immediate area was restricted while the incident was being managed.

School Community 'Deeply Saddened'

In a heartfelt statement, the school's headteacher, Catherine Lennox, confirmed the devastating news. "As you may already be aware, we have had a medical episode in school this morning," she said. "Sadly the student involved has passed away."

Ms Lennox expressed the profound grief felt across the school, stating: "Our entire school community is deeply saddened, and we will continue to come together to support one another at this incredibly difficult time." She added that the community's thoughts and prayers were with the family and all those affected.

School Closed as Support Offered

In response to the tragedy, the school leadership took the difficult decision to close St Wilfrid's for the remainder of the day. The headteacher asked parents and the public to respect the family's privacy during this period of profound loss.

The school has urged parents with concerns about their children returning home to make contact via the usual support channels. Families are due to be updated later today regarding arrangements for Thursday, December 19.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, with tributes expected to pour in for the pupil whose life was cut short.