SINGAPORE – A Maris Stella High School (Primary) pupil, who was making his way to school via the school bus on Tuesday morning, was found unresponsive upon reaching his destination.
The Primary 5 pupil was then taken by ambulance to the KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH), where he was later pronounced dead. The 11-year-old boy, according to parents, was unwell the day before the incident.
One parent, who declined to be named, said the boy was in her son’s class. On Wednesday (Aug 31), she received an e-mail from his form teacher addressing concerns that parents may have.
In the e-mail, the form teacher wrote that the pupils “may not be able to cope with the sudden loss of a classmate and a friend”, but reassured parents that the boys’ school will offer “that listening ear to the boys and provide the emotional support that they need during this difficult time”.
On Tuesday, the school’s leaders and year heads were present to offer their support to the boys.
The e-mail also noted that subject teachers will also be observing the class to check if there are any pupils who require help in managing their emotions. Parents too, were encouraged to monitor their child to see how they are coping with the loss.
The school’s principal, Mrs Woo Soo Min, said the school community is “saddened by the passing of one of our students”.
“We are in touch with the family and are providing assistance and support to them during this difficult time,” she added. “We are also providing emotional support to affected staff and students.”
On Tuesday, the police received a call at 6.51am requesting for assistance at 80, Bartley Road, where the primary section of the high school is located.
They found the boy unconscious when they arrived. The pupil was sent to KKH, where he was later pronounced dead at 8.46am.
The police are investigating the unnatural death.
This article was first published on Aug 31, 2016.
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