Rhondda school horror as girl pupil, 8, dies suddenly

An eight-year-old girl has tragically died, causing a Welsh primary school to close. Penrhys Primary School announced the closure following the death of one of their pupils on Wednesday.

Police were called to the Rhondda school at just after 2pm on Wednesday to reports of a "medical episode", South Wales Police confirmed. The eight-year-old girl was rushed to hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.

Detectives confirmed there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death, with Penrhys Primary School taking the decision to shut on Thursday. The school is expected to reopen on Friday.

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A spokesperson for South Wales Police said: "South Wales Police is investigating the sudden death of an eight-year-old girl in Ferndale. Emergency services were called to Penrhys Primary School in Ferndale just after 2pm on Wednesday, October 8, to reports of a medical episode.

"The girl was taken to hospital where she later died. There are no suspicious circumstances and an investigation on behalf of the coroner is now under way."

Penrhys Primary School posted a message to parents on Facebook on Wednesday. "Once again, thank you for your support and warm messages this afternoon," the statement read.

"Due to the traumatic event that happened at our lovely school this afternoon we will be closed for all children tomorrow. School will be open for children and staff again on Friday."

Another message, posted on Thursday morning, read: "As you are aware, the school will be closed today for all children. However, packed lunches will be available from Llanfair Church at 12pm for every child in the school."

Councillor Julie Edwards insisted more details regarding the tragic death will be released in the near future. In a statement published on social media she said: "I've been made aware of a tragic incident which occurred in Penrhys on Wednesday. South Wales Police are fully investigating the matter and more details will be released shortly.

"It’s still very early on in their investigation and they’ve asked residents not to speculate to avoid misinformation spreading. Once I have more information that I’m able to share I will update the post."

RCT Schools FA said on X: "Our thoughts are with everyone at Penrhys Primary School at this extremely difficult time and our condolences are with the family and friends of all those affected by this tragedy."