The principal of Pool Academy, Zelma Hill, has this morning paid tribute to 16-year-old Dagmara Przybysz who died at the school yesterday afternoon.

In a statement, Ms Hill said: "It is with overwhelming sadness that the principal, governors and staff of Pool Academy can confirm the tragic, sudden death of one of our students.

"We are deeply shocked and saddened by the loss of Dagmara Przybysz. Dagmara was a beautiful, bright and creative 16-year-old student with a very promising future ahead of her. She was passionate about fashion and photography. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Dagmara's family and friends at this difficult time."

Ms Hill, who said she was devastated by the news, added: "The loss of Dagmara is heartbreaking. We are supporting students, staff and their families though this terrible time."

Pupils and Staff offered counselling

Pupils and staff at Pool Academy are to be offered counselling following the sudden death of a 'beautiful' and 'lovely' teenage girl yesterday afternoon.

The school is open today while investigations into the unexplained death of the girl named locally as Dagmara Przybysz continue.

Posting on its Facebook page yesterday a statement from Pool Academy said:

"Following today's tragic event, School will be open as normal tomorrow (Wednesday) as we feel this is the best way to support students and staff.

"Support will also be available from Penhaligon's Friends, the School Chaplains and the Educational Psychology Team.

"A full statement will be issued once we have had the opportunity to speak to our students."

Police were called to Pool Academy at around 2.15pm yesterday, where three police cars and three ambulances could be seen parked outside.

A spokesperson confirmed that officers had attended an address in Pool following the "sudden death of a girl."

Paramedics also attended but Dagmara was pronounced dead at the scene.

Her next of kin has been informed.

A police spokesperson said: "Enquiries are continuing to establish the circumstances surrounding her death but it is not thought to be suspicious."

The cause of her death is not known at this time.

Tributes have been paid to the teenager, originally thought to be from Poland and a Facebook page has been set up in her memory.

Terlena Woodley wrote on Facebook: “My boy came home from school telling me, how awful.

“Rip beautiful young girl. My thoughts are with her family.

“Can’t imagine how they must be feeling.”

Martin Ferris wrote online: “RIP Dagmara Przybysz, we had some good times.

“I’ve always seen you as an amazing person, we’ve had some fun times that I won’t ever forget.

“You’ll fit perfectly up there in heaven, we won’t forget you. X”

Emma Mills wrote on the school's Facebook page: "Totally devastated for her family. You don't expect to send your child to school and then never see them again. My heart, thoughts and love go to her family, friends and teachers. RIP little one xxx

A memorial gathering is being planned for her this weekend.