School Adjusts Opening After Tragic Loss

A Market Harborough school will open slightly later when students return from the Easter break following the death of a popular member of staff.

Welland Park Academy’s Business Manager Elaine Winn was tragically killed alongside her husband Graeme in a cable car crash in Italy a week ago.

The school says the later start on Monday will allow staff the time to ensure they can support pupils sensitively during a difficult and emotional time.

Graeme & Elaine Winn

A statement said: “As a school community, we continue to come to terms with the devastating loss of our much-loved School Business Manager, Mrs Elaine Winn, who tragically lost her life alongside her husband in the recent cable car accident in Naples.

“In light of these tragic circumstances, and in recognition of the impact this loss has had on our staff and wider school community, we have made the decision to open the school slightly later on Monday for the start of the summer term.

“Therefore, on Monday 28th April, the school gates will open at 9:30am, with tutor time beginning at 9:45am. Break time will go ahead as normal at 10:05am, and lessons will resume from period 2.

“This adjustment allows our staff the time and space to prepare for the return of students and to ensure we are ready to support them sensitively through what will undoubtedly be a difficult and emotional time.

“We fully understand that this change may affect families with childcare or transport arrangements, and we will make appropriate accommodations for any student who needs to attend school at the usual time of 8:30am.”

Floral tributes have been left outside the school