‘Shocking Events’ – The Epsom College prep school where the bodies of the principal and family were found dead asks for space

“Our thoughts, condolences and sympathy are with their families at this tragic time.”

Surrey Police previously confirmed it was an isolated case and there was no third party involvement.

The school added: “The college is working with police on an ongoing investigation. We must now focus on the welfare and well-being of our students and staff and work to ensure they receive the comfort, warmth and support of the Epsom College community.”

The college concluded the statement by saying: “We ask the public and the media to respect the privacy of Emma’s family and to help us prioritize the needs of our students.

“The news is heartbreaking and we need time and space to come together and process these shocking events. No further explanation will be given at this time.”

Police said the next of kin have been briefed and are being assisted by specialist officers while an inquiry into the circumstances of her death is underway.

Detective Chief Inspector Kimball Edey said: “On behalf of Surrey Police, my team and myself, I would first like to express my sincere condolences to the friends and family of Emma, ​​Lettie and George, and to the students and staff at Epsom College, for their loss tragic loss.

“I want to assure that we will be conducting a thorough investigation into what happened last night and hope to bring some peace to these traumatic circumstances. I would ask that your privacy be respected at this very difficult time.”

Inspector Jon Vale, District Commander of Epsom and Ewell, said: “We are aware that this tragic incident will have caused concern and excitement in the local community.

“While this is believed to be an isolated case, our local officers will remain in the area over the coming days to provide reassurance for students, parents, teachers and the local community.

“I would like to thank the school and community for their understanding and patience while the investigation continues.”

Surrey Police said the three deaths had been reported to the coroner.

dr Alastair Wells, Chair of the Board of Governors of Epsom College, said: “On behalf of everyone at Epsom College, I would like to express our utmost shock and disbelief at this tragic news.

“Our immediate thoughts and condolences go out to Emma’s family, friends and loved ones, as well as the many students and colleagues whose lives she has enriched during her remarkable career.

“Emma was a wonderful teacher but most of all she was a lovely person. When the time comes, we will remember Emma and her family in an appropriate manner and in accordance with her family’s wishes.

“But now we ask that we all be given the time, space and respect we need to come to terms with this tragic loss.”

Ms Pattison became Epsom’s first female Headmaster in September 2022 after six years as Headmaster at Croydon High School in south London.

College boarders pay more than £42,000 a year and its alumni include Conservative MP Sir Michael Fallon, broadcaster Jeremy Vine and comedian Tim Vine.

Epsom College won the top prize at the 2022 Independent Schools of the Year Awards, with judges calling it a “beacon of excellence”.

The school was also named a Student Wellbeing Award winner at the October ceremony, thanks to its “whole-school approach to the mental health and well-being of both its staff and students.”

More than 850 boys and girls attend the school, founded in 1853, whose acting director is listed as Paul Williams.

Ms Pattison’s husband George was a chartered accountant who was a director of a management consultancy firm called Tanglewood 2016, according to Companies House.