STAFF and pupils at a Kent infants school are in a state of shock after a teacher died after collapsing in front of a class of five and six year olds.

Sue Blade, 48, a long-serving teacher at Woodlands Infant School at Tonbridge, collapsed during afternoon lessons on Tuesday.

The children were ushered out of the classroom immediately by a parent helper. Paramedics were called, but they could not resusitate her. The school will be closed until Monday (November 24).

Educational psychologists are working closely with the school and a full range of counselling services will be available to children, staff and parents.

Headteacher Suzi Morgan said: "We are all devastated by Sue's death. She was a much loved member of staff and had been with the school for ten years.

"Those children who had the privilege of being in her care benefited not only academically, but more especially with their self-esteem and confidence. It is a testimony to her undeniable talents as a teacher, and her absolute down to earth loveliness as a person, that many former pupils visited her regularly.

"It was not just children's lives she touched, but everyone who came into contact with her. Her enthusiasm and talent for music inspired us all and has given us many fond memories."

She stressed: "Our sympathy and condolences are with Sue's family at this tragic time."