The John Roan School in Greenwich is “grieving together” after Year 7 pupil, Fabian Henry, died in a fire in his home just before midnight on Tuesday (July 8).
School principal Jennie Sanderson has described Fabian as a “happy and popular” boy who he excelled at football and had a “bright future ahead of him”.
She wrote in a message to parents: “Fabian was a very popular, happy and highly respected student who was known and loved by many across the school.
Boy, 12, dies after flat destroyed by two-hour fire in Lewisham
“He was an extremely keen sportsman and particularly talented at football.
“Everyone who taught Fabian would say he was a genuine pleasure to teach with a bright and positive future ahead of him.”
The fire on Orchard Gardens destroyed a two-storey flat and destroyed the flat above.
Officers from Met Police attended with the London Fire Brigade and the London Ambulance Service.
Despite their efforts, Fabian was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.
A woman, aged 54, was taken to hospital by paramedics. Her injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.
The school will he hosting a book of remembrance for pupils to sign with tributes to their school friend.
Sanderson added: “Events such as this can be extremely difficult for young people to contemplate.
“At times like this, we know that children are helped by routine and consistency in their lives so we will be operating normal school days for the rest of this week.
“But we will also be fully supported by specially trained counsellors from London Borough of Greenwich who will be available to any student or member of staff who would like to speak to them.
“Staff will be particularly sensitive to how our young people are feeling and will ensure that they are able to speak to specialists should they need to as an outlet for their grief.
“We are a close-knit community at The John Roan and together we mourn the loss of one of our own.
“In due course we will find an appropriate way to remember Fabian in the school but for now we will grieve together as we come to terms with our loss.”
