TRIBUTES have been paid to an ‘inspirational’ city headmaster who died suddenly at the age of 48 after suffering a pulmonary embolism.
Matthew Armstrong, headmaster of Kings School Worcester, passed away in the early hours of Sunday (August 11) to the shock of school chiefs who spoke of their profound sadness at the news.
Chair of Governors Hugh Carslake said tributes to Mr Armstrong’s ‘exceptional’ contribution to the vibrancy and success of the foundation and its community would be made in due course.
“In the meantime, our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Kate, his parents and family,” he said.
“Matthew’s leadership has left the school in a strong position and the Governors are confident Jon Ricketts, the current senior deputy and acting headmaster, will in the interim continue to take the school forward, building on Matthew’s legacy.”
The respected headmaster and former business analyst for management consultants McKinsey and Co arrived at Kings in September 2014 to succeed Tim Keyes who retired after sixteen years of distinguished service.
Prior to his appointment, Mr Armstrong was an assistant headmaster at Charterhouse and also taught at Winchester College for five years
“‘I would like pupils to come to King’s and leave still curious about the world, still excited to learn and able to adapt to changes which none of us is able to predict” – a quote from Mr Armstrong on the school’s website
Mr Ricketts said the school community had been left deeply shocked and saddened by the news.
“Matthew was a passionate and visionary headmaster and was well respected by pupils, parents and his colleagues.
We are all working to support each other, the wider King’s community and Matthew’s family through this sad time.”
Support for those affected by the news had been put in place and pupils who wish to speak to someone about Mr Armstrong’s death can speak to Mrs Toland in the school office
A book of condolences was available at the entrance of the senior school library from yesterday (Tuesday).
The Dean and Chapter of Worcester Cathedral, where Mr Armstrong served as a member of the Cathedral Council, said they were both deeply shocked and saddened to learn of his death.
“Matthew has not only been an outstanding head, but he and Kate have been active members of the Cathedral community and strongly supportive of the Cathedral Choir,” a statement read.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Kate, with Matthew’s family, and with the whole school community at this sad and difficult time.”
