Staff and students of the Anchovy High School in St. James are in mourning following the death of a grade seven pupil today.

The identity of the male student has not been released.

Reports are that at about 11 AM, the student was participating in the school’s cross-country event when he collapsed and died.

Principal Dr. Lavern Stewart witnessed the incident.

She told IRIE FM News that she is not coping well.

In the meantime, Chairman of the School Board Nigel Goulab said a meeting was held with school officials shortly after the incident and that Dr. Stewart was excluded from those talks as she is traumatised.

The school was also dismissed at 11:45 AM due to the tragedy.

Mr. Goulab said different agencies provided emotional support today.

He said counselling will be provided to all affected students and staff next Monday.

He assured that all safety policies for the cross-country event were being adhered to.