Emma Pattison was found dead at her home on the Epsom College campus, along with her husband George, 39, and their 7-year-old daughter Lettie.
Their deaths shocked the prestigious independent school and the wider community in the town of Surrey.
Who is Emma Pattison?
Mrs. Pattison became principal of Epsom College in September 2022 having previously served as principal of Croydon High School for six years.
She was the first woman to become principal of the school, which is now Independent School of the Year, according to the school’s website.
Upon her appointment, Ms. Pattison said: “I am delighted and honored to be appointed principal of Epsom College.
“It’s a school I’ve long admired, with an enviable reputation, and George and I can’t wait to meet the students, parents and staff and be part of this wonderful community.
“Our intention is to make our homes and schools equally welcoming in the months and years to come.”
Her husband, George, is a chartered accountant who is a director of a management consulting firm called Tanglewood 2016, according to Companies House.
Discussing how the move came about in a podcast, Ms. Pattison said: “It was a really big change for my family. So obviously we moved.
“We bought a dog. I got a new job, my husband got a new job, which wasn’t meant to happen, but I did and my daughter started a new school. So there’s been a lot of changes for us as a family but it’s been amazing.”
Mrs. Pattison, husband George, 39, and Lettie, seven
Epsom College
The school was founded in 1855 and currently has more than 850 students enrolled.
It offers day and boarding education for girls and boys aged 11-18.
Boarders tuition is up to £42,000 a year and the acting head is listed as Paul Williams.
The school was named Independent School of the Year in October 2022 and lists its values such as kindness, ambition and integrity on its website.
Its alumni include Conservative MP Sir Michael Fallon, broadcaster Jeremy Vine and comedian Tim Vine.
In a statement, the school said: “We are deeply saddened and saddened to announce the death of Emma Pattison, principal of Epsom College, daughter Lettie and her husband George.
“Our thoughts, condolences and sympathies are with their families at this tragic time.”
What did the police say?
Police said family members have been notified and are being assisted by specialist officers while an investigation is underway to determine the circumstances of their death.
Detective Chief Inspector Kimball Edey said: “On behalf of Surrey Police, my team and I, I would first like to express our sincerest condolences to the friends and family of Emma, Lettie and George, as well as the students and staff of Epsom College, for their tragic loss.
“I want to make sure we do a thorough investigation into what happened last night and hopefully bring some peace to these grievous circumstances. I ask for your privacy. They are respected at this very difficult time.”
