Rotherham school set to close for funeral of popular headteacher Rachael Booth

A Rotherham school will close tomorrow as its beloved former headteacher is laid to rest.

The Willows special education school on Locksley Drive in Thurcroft is in mourning for Rachael Booth, who died suddenly last month.

Mrs Booth suffered a heart attack on the premises and died a few days later on October 20.

In a statement on the school website, Warren Carratt, chief executive officer for Nexus Multi Academy Trust which runs the school, said: “School will be closed on Thursday 12 November 2026, to allow our workforce to say goodbye to Rachael Booth.

“We are all beyond grateful for your understanding, as we have sought to navigate what has been an incredibly difficult situation, and I know that the loss of any school day creates challenges and difficulties for families.

“We are asking now for one more day of support from you, so that the staff team can join Rachael’s family and friends at her funeral and both mourn our loss and celebrate her life, together.

“In time, we will find the best way possible to mark Rachael’s life and service to The Willows, I promise you that.”

Following Mrs Booth’s death, there was an overwhelming outpouring of sympathy from parents and others, as well as floral tributes laid at the school gates.

Becky Allard has been named as executive headteacher for The Willows School, supported by Charlotte Stewart, who has become head of school.

Emily Wilkinson has become deputy head, and Matt Holmshaw will continue as assistant head.

In the days after Mrs Booth’s death, her grieving husband Andrew set up a gofundme page to help the school his wife loved.

A total of £8,646 has been raised so far.

To contribute to the fundraiser, visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-willows-special-needs-school?cp_src=d