PUPILS and staff at an infant school are mourning the loss of an inspirational headteacher, who died of pneumonia aged just 51.

Jenny Keeley, headteacher of Thorpe Greenways Infant School in Southend, became ill over the summer and died last Friday.

Colleagues at the school paid tribute to the talented and dedicated teacher, and spoke of their shock at her tragic death.

The school’s acting head, Denise Knight, said: “This loss has left both a personal and professional void within the school and local community.

“Jenny was a vivacious character, full of energy and drive, and as headteacher she devoted her life to giving the children in her school the best possible educational opportunities.”

Mrs Keeley lived in Shoebury with her husband Stephen and two sons.

She qualified as a teacher in 1982, and rose to become a headteacher just six years later, aged 27, when she took over the helm at Tilbury Manor infants school in Thurrock.

She became head of Thorpe Greenways, in Greenways, six years ago, becoming a popular figure among the school’s 360 pupils.

Letters breaking the news of Mrs Keeley’s death were sent to parents on Monday to allow children to be told what had happened in the comfort of their own homes.

Mrs Knight said: “Jenny was a very caring person and she built strong relationships with the families within the school and the local community as well as close relationships with the children within her care.

“She will be remembered in the school as a true leader who inspired children, teachers and governors to achieve the highest standards of performance.”

The school is planning a memorial to Mrs Keeley in the coming months.

Mrs Knight added: “Members of the school community will take an opportunity to remember Jenny in their own way, and celebrate her life and her contribution to the school.

“She will be sorely missed, and her presence and impact on the school will never be forgotten.

“The thoughts and prayers of the children, staff and governors go out to her family at this sad time.”