Tributes paid to All Saints’ Infants School head teacher

Kate Griffin, head teacher of All Saints Infants’ School, in Matlock, passed away last Thursday (April 10) after fighting the form of blood cancer.

The 40–year–old had been diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia in October 2012 while 34 weeks pregnant.

Five days later she gave birth to a her youngest daughter Nancy and immediately started a course of chemotherapy.

In April last year her cancer went into remission, however it returned in October last year.

Rev Richard Reade, vice chairman of the board of governors at All Saints Infants School, said: “Kate was a dedicated head teacher, she was well loved, very talented, very gifted and is going to be missed.

“She was just a pleasure to work with and she was well loved by children and parents – it’s tragic.”

He added that the governors were working with the current acting head teacher to look at ways in which the school and church together could give thanks for her life once term starts.

Mrs Griffin lived in Holymoorside, with her husband Ross and their three daughters.

Her eldest daughters, Lydia and Eva, ran the BUPA Mini Great Manchester Run in 2013 – raising almost £1,000 for Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research.

Tributes have flooded into the Mercury for Mrs Griffin from parents and members of the community.

Commenting on Facebook, Emma Worrall said: “Kate was a one off... we are quite simply devastated to lose not only an inspiring, loving and generous head teacher but a dear friend who will always hold a place in our hearts.”

Becky Pilkington added: “Both my children attended the infants and are now at the junior school.

“Kate Griffin was a lovely person with a huge heart, adored by children, parents and colleagues alike.

“She will leave a massive void for all who knew her. Thoughts are with her family and friends.”

Lisa Gregory said: “I was shocked and saddened to hear this news from my daughter.

“Mrs Griffin was loved by all the kids who she taught and was a really friendly and approachable lady.

“Thoughts are with her husband and three children at this sad time.”

Maria Castelluccio commented: “Very sad news.

“Mrs Griffin was a wonderful head teacher – always had a lovely smile on her face to greet both children and parents alike – definitely be a bright star shining down on all she knew.”