A TEACHER has paid tribute to a "wonderful" 14-year-old girl who suffered a heart attack during a PE lesson at school and sadly died last week.

Tilbury's Gateway Academy has confirmed the death of pupil Kayla Ere, 14.

The teenager passed away on Thursday, March 14 after falling unwell at school.

A community fundraiser to pay for the family’s funeral costs has smashed its £1,500 target, with more than £13,000 raised so far.

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A Gateway Academy spokesman said: "Following the medical emergency at The Gateway Academy on Thursday, March 2 involving a student who became very unwell in a PE lesson it is with great sadness that we inform our community that she died in hospital.

"The medical team at the Gateway Academy, paramedics and doctors worked tirelessly to support the student before the air ambulance transferred her to King's College hospital.

"Members of staff attended hospital with the family and with members of the Tilbury community, are reaching out to provide continuing support.

"Staff, students and the whole GLC community are devastated at this time.

"Students and staff who are most affected have access to professionals who are providing guidance and support; enabling us to give emotional support to the children and each other through this difficult time.”

The fundraising page states: “On 2nd March a single mother, a family, a group of friends and our Thurrock Community lost a young 14-year-old girl to heaven.

“No previous medical conditions. Suddenly she passed due to a Cardiac Arrest. Words cannot describe this tragedy!

“The mother left behind has lost her world.”

To donate, visit: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/anita-singh