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Tributes have been paid to a “beautiful” and “kind” teacher who died in hospital following a medical emergency at her school. Rachael Booth, 53, who ran Willows School in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, tragically lost her life days after suffering a sudden heart attack. Ms Booth was able to spend her final moments surrounded by loved ones after her colleagues rushed to her aid. She died at the hospital on October 20, as reported by NeedToKnow. The Willows School focuses on special educational needs and disabilities, teaching students between the ages of 7 and 19. Ms Booth had worked at the school for 15 years, starting as a math teacher in 2010 before working her way up to the role of head teacher.
The Weiden School was initially closed after the incident. It then briefly reopened before deciding to close again to allow staff and students to process the tragedy. Open again as usual after the half-term break in November. A heartbreaking message was posted on the school’s website following her tragic death.
Warren Carratt, Chief Executive Officer of Nexus MAT, the trust that runs the school, wrote: “Dear families, It is with a heavy heart that I am writing to inform you that our lovely headteacher, Rachael Booth, passed away earlier today.
“We are very sorry for any inconvenience this may cause and I hope you understand why we have taken this difficult decision. The school will reopen to students as normal on Monday 2nd November 2026. The school staff fought so hard last week to resuscitate Rachael and it is because of their actions that Rachael’s family and friends were able to be with her during her final days are
“Rachael had a deep and faithful faith, and her strong belief was that there is a better plan of existence beyond the borders of this world. If that is true, then this place has become immeasurably better for welcoming Rachael Booth into it. where she has touched thousands of lives, changed them for the better.
“You may want to speak to your child to explain what has happened, but rest assured that we will ensure that teachers and support staff share this news with students in a planned and personalized way when school reopens, so that we minimize any upset they may feel and support them through difficulties.
“Thank you for all you have done and will continue to do for The Willows. The school community will come together when the time is right to celebrate all that Rachael Booth has 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.”
Tributes were also paid to the teacher on Facebook, with one person who said Ms Booth was her maths teacher writing: “She was my maths teacher when I was at Valley School 2005-2009,” The Sun reported. “I never forgot her pukka classroom and how she always wore her Dr. Martens.
“She was the sweetest, kindest woman to grace the education sector and I pass on my sincere condolences to her family. Rest in peace, Mrs. Booth!”
