PUPILS and staff at a Kent school have been shocked by the sudden death of one of their senior teachers.

Michael Grace, who joined the Abbey School at Faversham five years ago and was head of the computer department, was only 46.

Mr Grace, from Margate, and leaves a widow and two children aged nine and 13.

A coroner's office spokesman said an investigation was underway to find the cause of death.

Head teacher Catrin Woodend said Mr Grace, who joined the school from St Lawrence College, Ramsgate, had contributed significantly to the development of ICT at the Abbey School.

She stressed: “He was passionate about creating opportunities for young people to succeed and providing the best possible environment for them to do so.

“Michael will be remembered for his Christian values and the support that he gave to both staff and students.

“He contributed widely to the life of the school working as a teacher governor and with the primary schools in the Rural Swale Cluster.

“His untimely departure has been a tremendous shock to students and staff, but our thoughts are with Michael’s wife and two children at this most difficult of times."

Mrs Woodend said the school council had discussed raising money for a commemorative bench and tree and a series of assemblies had been held for all age groups.