Head teacher, husband and daughter found dead
THE head of Epsom College has been found dead at the school alongside her seven-year-old daughter and husband.
The bodies of Emma Pattison, 45, her husband, George, 39, and their daughter, Lettie, were found in the early hours of yesterday.
Officers were called to the boarding school in Surrey at around 1.10am.
Surrey Police said that an investigation is being carried out to establish the circumstances of their deaths. At this stage, police said, they are “confident that this is an isolated incident with no third-party involvement”.
The family’s next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers. Dr Alastair Wells, chairman of the board of governors at Epsom College, said: “On behalf of everyone at Epsom College, I want to convey our utter shock and disbelief at this tragic news.
“Our immediate thoughts and condolences are with Emma’s family, friends and loved ones, and to the many pupils and colleagues whose lives she enriched throughout her distinguished career.
“Emma was a wonderful teacher, but most of all she was a delightful person. In time, we will commemorate Emma and her family in the appropriate way, and in line with the wishes of her family.
“But for now, we ask that we are all given the time, space and respect we need to come to terms with this tragic loss.” There was a significant police presence at the school and surrounding area, Surrey Police said last night.
Emma Pattison joined Epsom College as the head teacher in September. She was previously head of Croydon High School in south London and deputy head of St John’s School Leatherhead.
In an email from Dr Wells to parents at the school, he said that the college would come together this morning at the usual time. “Chapel services will take place throughout the morning; house masters, house mistresses and the head of lower school will be on hand to offer immediate support and comfort; and we will have additional counsellors on.
site for any member of the community – pupils and staff – who needs to talk, grieve or be supported.”
Epsom College is a high prestige boarding school where fees are up to £42,303 a year. It was named Independent School of the Year 2022 at a ceremony that celebrates the best of UK independent schools.
The college announced Ms Pattison’s appointment by posting a photograph of the family on its website, and stated that they would live on the grounds in the Head’s House.
Detective Chief Inspector Kimball Edey said: “I want to give my assurance that we will conduct a thorough investigation into what took place last night, and hope to be able to bring some peace in these traumatic circumstances.”
Inspector Jon Vale, Epsom and Ewell’s borough commander, said: “While this is believed to be an isolated incident, in the coming days our local officers will remain in the area to offer reassurance to students, parents, teachers, and the local community. I would like to thank the school and the community for their understanding and patience while the investigation continues.”