Ross Williams, the long-serving principal of Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School in Bayswater, has died after collapsing during a school camp in Rye.
Mr Williams, who was in his 50s, became unwell after complaining of chest pain while walking with pupils on the first night of the three-day camp, according to reports.
A member of staff rushed to help and CPR was performed, but Mr Williams could not be revived. The children were moved away from the area and are not believed to have witnessed his death.
The camp was abandoned and pupils returned home on Tuesday.
Mr Williams had led Our Lady of Lourdes since 2016, and his death has prompted an outpouring of grief across the school and parish community.
Jackson Taylor, the Labor MP for the area, visited the school to offer his condolences and pay his respects.
In a tribute shared on Facebook, Mr Taylor described Mr Williams as a “genuinely decent human being” who knew the names of the children and was admired by staff and families.
“He had an incredible sense of humour and was so respected and loved by staff and families,” Mr Taylor wrote. “He was someone who always went out of his way to be kind and caring, and I am just shocked that he is no longer with us.”
Mr Taylor said Mr Williams had been “a great man, a wonderful educator and a devoted family man”, adding that the school community “absolutely adored him”.
The Williams family said they were “deeply shocked” by the loss of their husband and father.
“He cared deeply for his family, his friends and his community, always putting others first and making everyone feel valued and cared for,” they said.
“He was a truly special person who will be remembered with immense love and gratitude. He will forever remain in our hearts and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.”
