Ann Maguire stabbing: Hundreds of teachers pay silent tribute

School attacks are 'mercifully rare', conference says

Keiran Sykes, the deputy headteacher of Corpus Christi Catholic College, reads the hundreds of tributes left in honour of slain teacher Ann Maguire in Leeds

Hundreds of teachers have paid tribute to Ann Maguire, saying her death has caused “great sadness” in the profession.

A minute’s silence was held by about 300 delegates at the National Association of Headteachers' (NAHT) annual conference in Birmingham on Saturday.

Mrs Maguire, 61, was months away from retiring when she was attacked in the classroom in front of terrified pupils at Corpus Christi Catholic College in Leeds last week.

Bernadette Hunter, the outgoing president of NAHT, asked delegates to pay tribute to Mrs Maguire's 40 years service, describing her as a “dedicated, inspiring and caring teacher who was loved by so many”.

A resolution to note the Spanish teacher’s death said it was made “with great sadness”.

It added: "The attack was unprecedented. Schools across the country are generally very safe places to work and learn in every day.

"Such incidents are mercifully rare and our condolences go out to the family and friends of Ann Maguire and to the students and colleagues of Corpus Christi Catholic College."

The resolution, which was backed by union members, went on to say that the NAHT should ensure "that the very positive behaviour, that is the norm in schools, is celebrated".

Meanwhile, a book of condolence has been opened at Leeds Cathedral for people to sign.

Additional reporting by PA

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