A police investigation is under way following the death of a Ballakermeen High School pupil.

The Douglas school informed parents and guardians on Thursday that a Year 8 student had died unexpectedly last week. The pupil is understood to have been aged 12 or 13.

Police have said the young person died outside the school environment and that officers were investigating the circumstances on behalf of the Coroner.

A statement issued to Media Isle of Man said: ‘Police can confirm a pupil has sadly passed away outside of the school environment. The police are investigating the circumstances on behalf of the Coroner.

‘A bereavement response team will be present at Ballakermeen High School to support pupils, and specially trained family liaison officers are in place to support the family.

‘We kindly ask that the privacy of the family is respected at this time and that people refrain from speculation.’

The school’s headteacher, Graeme Corrin, told parents and guardians that the school community was ‘deeply saddened’ by the death.

He said: ‘The loss of a young person is something that is felt profoundly across the school community and we know that this news will be difficult for many of our students, families and staff to hear.

‘Our immediate thoughts are with the student’s family and those closest to them, as they begin to come to terms with their loss.’

Mr Corrin said it was normal for people experiencing bereavement to feel a range of emotions, including ‘sadness, anger and confusion’.

No further details about the circumstances surrounding the death have been confirmed.

Anyone affected by bereavement or struggling with their wellbeing can access support through the Isle of Man Government’s wellbeing support service online at gov.im/wellbeingsupport.