When the news of a death has been received by the school, the senior management team need to decide on their strategy and pathway forward. It is important to contact the family/families and clarify the situation and their wishes and preferences should be taken into consideration, wherever possible. Announcing the news to the school community can be challenging and it is important that it is handled sensitively and effectively. There are some important differences in the approach you might take, depending on what has happened and who is involved.