Thousands of donations have been rolling in online for a UK wide suicide prevention charity following the death of a much-loved Caversham head teacher.

Ruth Perry, the head teacher at Caversham Primary School, ‘took her own life’ on January 8 after the school received an ‘inadequate’ rating in their 2022 OFSTED report.

The death came as a shock to her family and school community, who have reached out with words and donations of support.

The family have chosen the charity ‘Papyrus’ which people can donate to in Ruth’s’ memory.

Words of comfort have come from fellow educators, families of school children and many of Ruth’s friends and family.

Ruth, who led many children through their early education years over her time a teacher has been described as an inspirational leader.

The Parsons family donated £100 to the charity in memory of Ruth. They said: Mrs Perry was an inspirational leader: it is hard to think about Caversham Primary School without immediately thinking of her too - as a constant and steadying presence throughout the school years and the Covid pandemic.

“She seemed to know all of the children by name, and to which parents each belonged. When not visibly leading school events herself, Mrs Perry always appeared to be quietly present in the background - whether on the edge of the playground at drop-off and pick up times, or late in the evening when coaches brought the children back from events.

“Our children very much appreciated the Latin classes that Mrs Perry led herself outside of normal school hours, and which developed their own interest in languages.

“Our thoughts are with Mrs Perry's family, friends and colleagues. Mrs Perry - you are very much missed.

Deputy head, Annie Hanson said: “Ruth was a colleague, a mentor and, most importantly, a friend. Being her deputy and part of her CPS family was a privilege. She cared passionately about her community, made a difference to so many and will be hugely missed. Rest easy lovely Ruth.”

Ruth’s sister Julie appeared on BBC South explaining the injustice and suffering that she felt during the weeks following the inspection and the month’s leading up to her death.

Many people have reached out following the news that her death was due to the pressures of the OFSTED report, which would have been the first inspection in 13 years for the school.  

Another person, who left a donation for Papyrus and words of support for the family said: “I saw the news report on BBC South last night about Ruth's death and I feel so sad. Heart felt condolences to her family, friends and colleagues. A small donation from me to this great charity made in her name and her memory.”

Papyrus is a charity which helps bring support to young people who are contemplating suicide or self harm and afraid to speak openly.

Their aim is to reduce the number of young people who take their own lives by shattering the stigma around suicide and equipping young people and their communities with the skills to recognise and respond to suicidal behaviour.

If you wish to leave a donation or message in memory of Ruth click here