THE headteacher of Minehead Middle School has promised to lead teachers, pupils, and their families and through the tragedy which struck last week when a school outing ended with the death of a 10-year-old boy and injuries to 21 other people.

Laura Mackie, who has been head since September, 2023, said she remained committed ‘to every member of our school community’.

Ms Mackie, a teacher with 22 years of experience, was speaking after a school coach carrying year five pupils crashed off the A396 Cutcombe Hill last Thursday (July 17) on the way back from an enrichment week trip to Exmoor Zoo, near Combe Martin.

The tragedy has seen a wave of grief engulf Minehead and surrounding communities with hundreds of floral tributes left at the school gates and more than £50,000 raised to support affected families.

Ms Mackie said: “We are heartbroken by the loss of one of our students in the tragic incident that occurred on Thursday.

“This has deeply affected every member of our school community.

“The student was a much-loved part of our school, a bright, kind, and valued individual who brought joy to those around them.

“We are devastated by their loss and are holding their family and friends in our hearts.

“We are also thinking of those who were injured and affected.

“Our priority now is to provide care and support for all our students, their families, and our staff.

“As a school, we are working with partner schools, the local authority, and specialist services to ensure everybody receives the help they need, emotionally, practically, and in the long term.

“We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support from our community.

“This has brought some comfort during an otherwise unimaginable time.

“We will come together to support one another and honour the memory of our student with love, respect, and care.”