Tragedy as school announces beloved Rotherham headteacher has died after suffering heart attack
“There will be a time when all of those who love Rachael will be able to celebrate her life and the immeasurable difference she made for children and families”
A beloved Rotherham headteacher has died after suffering a heart attack at school last week, it has been announced.
Mrs Rachael Booth, headteacher of the Willows School in Thurcroft, collapsed at the school on the morning of October 14.
In a devastating update shared on the school’s website this evening (Tuesday, October 20), Warren Carratt, chief executive officer of Nexus Multi Academy Trust, confirmed Mrs Booth passed away earlier today.
Mr Carratt said: “It is with a heavy heart that I am writing to inform you that our beautiful Headteacher, Rachael Booth, passed away earlier today...school staff fought so hard to resuscitate Rachael last week, and it is because of their actions that Rachael’s family and friends were able to be with her during her final days.
“Rachael had a deep and devout faith, and her strong belief was that there is a better plane of existence beyond the confines of this world.
“If that’s true, then that place has become immeasurably better for welcoming Rachael Booth into it.”
Mr Carratt added: “This is devasting news for our school community, and The Willows will now be closed for the rest of this week, whilst our staff team come to terms with this tragedy.
“I am sorry for any inconvenience this may cause, and I hope you understand why we have taken this difficult decision. School will re-open for pupils on Monday 2 November 2026, as normal.
“There will be a time when all of those who love Rachael will be able to celebrate her life and the immeasurable difference she made for children and families, in a career of public service where she touched thousands of lives, changing them for the better.”
He said the school community will “come together when the time is right to celebrate everything that Rachael Booth 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.”