A school is in mourning after two pupils tragically died over the half-term holidays.
Harry Towers and Mohammed Habib both lost their lives in the same week, St John Fisher Catholic College, in Newcastle-under-Lyme informed parents.
Both boys were remembered in prayers during an online assembly yesterday, Stoke Sentinel reported.
Acting headteacher Garrett Murray said: "The school is deeply saddened to learn of the deaths of two of our learners Mohammed Habib and Harry Towers.
"We are praying for them and their families and friends and keeping them in our thoughts at this very difficult time.
"I'm in contact with both families and have offered our deepest condolences and support.
"This will have a large impact on the whole school community and we are ensuring support is available in school for anyone who needs it."
In the letter to parents, Mr Murray described each boy as a 'much-loved member of our school community'.
The letter noted that Harry, who was in year 11, died on Saturday, October 30.
Paying tribute, Mr Murray said: "Harry approached life with a wonderful sense of humour and showed such care and compassion towards all those that he encountered.
"Harry was popular and loved by all his peers, teachers and pastoral staff. He will be deeply missed by all in our school community."
Year 10 pupil Habib died on Sunday, October 24 and was buried at Fenton Muslim Cemetery on Tuesday, October 26.
"Mohammed was devout in his faith. His charitable nature will be sorely missed by all in the community," Mr Murray said.
"In his quiet way, Habib always looked out for others in need and was ready to support and help them. He will be deeply missed by all in our school community.
Staffordshire Educational Psychology Service is providing support following the tragedies.
Mr Murray added: "At this stage, the cause of each death has not yet been determined and out of respect for both families, we would ask people not to speculate, particularly on social media, at this very difficult time.
"I would ask that you keep both learners and their families and friends in your thoughts and prayers at this time."
