Oakwood School mourns death of Year 11 pupil at Ulley Reservoir

PUPILS, teachers and parents at Oakwood High School are in shock after the death of a Year 11 pupil who drowned at Ulley Reservoir on Friday.
Emergency services at the scene on FridayEmergency services at the scene on Friday
Emergency services at the scene on Friday

Sam Haycock (pictured above) got into difficulty in the water at around 3pm as friends tried to save him and emergency services rushed to the scene.

Underwater search teams, seen below during their efforts to rescue Sam, found his body a short time later.

An online book of condolences has been set up by the school, with permission from Sam’s family, and pupils are being offered counselling.

Oakwood headteacher Chris Eccles said: “This has come as a great shock to us all and I know it will have an impact on pupils, staff and parents alike.

“Despite school being closed for half term this week, we are still here to offer support to those who need it.”

Mr Eccles said in a letter sent to parents yesterday that although Year 11 pupils had finished their studies, they were welcome to return to school to access support.

“This is an incredibly sad time for us all and our thoughts go out to Sam’s family and friends,” he added.