A headteacher has died after staff tried to save her during a sudden heart attack at school.
Rachael Booth tragically lost her life days after suffering a shock cardiac arrest at work.
The headteacher of a special needs school was able to spend her last moments surrounded by loved ones after her heroic colleagues rushed to her aid.
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The head of the Willows School, in Rotherham, died in hospital on 20 Oct, as reported by Need To Know.
Booth suffered the sudden heart attack on 14 Oct whilst at work.
According to reports, staff members rushed over to try and resuscitate her before she was rushed to hospital.
She had spent 15 years working at the school and helped ‘thousands’ of lives in the process.
The Willows School initially closed after the incident, briefly reopening before deciding to shut again to allow staff and pupils to process the tragedy.
It will reopen as usual on 2 Nov following the half-term break.
Booth joined the school in 2010 as a maths teacher working with pupils between the ages of seven and 19.
Her incredible work saw her progress through the school before ultimately being appointed headteacher.
A heartbreaking message was posted on the school’s website following her tragic death.
Warren Carratt, Chief Executive Officer of Nexus MAT, wrote: “Dear families,
“It is with a heavy heart that I am writing to inform you that our beautiful Headteacher, Rachael Booth, passed away earlier today.
“This is devastating news for our school community, and The Willows will now be closed for the rest of this week, whilst our staff team come to terms with this tragedy.
“I am sorry for any inconvenience this may cause, and I hope you understand why we have taken this difficult decision.
“School will re-open for pupils on Monday 2 November 2026, as normal.
“School staff fought so hard to resuscitate Rachael last week, and it is because of their actions that Rachael’s family and friends were able to be with her during her final days.
“Rachael had a deep and devout faith, and her strong belief was that there is a better plane of existence beyond the confines of this world.
“If that’s true, then that place has become immeasurably better for welcoming Rachael Booth into it.
“There will be a time when all of those who love Rachael will be able to celebrate her life and the immeasurable difference she made for children and families, in a career of public service where she touched thousands of lives, changing them for the better.
“You may wish to speak to your child to explain what has happened.
“However, please be reassured that we will ensure teachers and support staff share this news with pupils in a planned and personalised way when school re-opens, so that we can minimise any upset they may feel and support them through any difficulties.
“Thank you for everything you have done and will continue to do for The Willows.
“The school community will come together, when the time is right to celebrate everything that Rachael Booth brought to this world, and especially to the children, families and staff of The Willows School, in her service as our energetic, compassionate and inspirational Headteacher.”
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