News

Staff and pupils at the Folkestone Academy are mourning the loss of their Principal, John Patterson after he passed away at the weekend.

Mr Patterson had been taken ill before Easter. He was admitted to hospital when his condition worsened two weeks ago and it was discovered he had cancer. He died on Sunday.

A letter informing parents has been sent by Chairman of the Trustees, Roger De Haan . In it he wrote "The speed with which John's illness developed has clearly taken us all by surprise, and I am sure that the school community will share great sadness at this news.

"Our thoughts are now with John's family."

He leaves a wife, Alex and two young daughters.

Since arriving at the school his strict regime of discipline has made the popularity of the school such, that it was heavily oversubscribed for this year's intake of Year 7 pupils.

The school is currently being run by the vice principal, Louise McGowan.