It is with deep sadness that we inform the QEGS community of the passing of Ian Yates, a valued member of QEGS support staff, aged 66. Ian joined QEGS in January 2017 and was loved by staff and children alike during his 4 years as School Minibus Driver.  

Within his role, Ian operated the school’s free minibus service between Blackburn Bus Station and the school and he also supported local families by transporting their children to and from school, as part of a paid service route.

Pupils and students benefitted from Ian’s friendly nature and dedication, which ensured they were able to get to school, sporting activities and other enrichment opportunities safely and on time. Ian freely gave his time to the PE Faculty, driving children and sports equipment to Lammack Playing Fields and assisted in the DT Department, helping staff wherever he could.

Ian’s ability to cheer up all those he met will be sadly missed and we ask the QEGS community to join us in sending our prayers to his family during this difficult time.

The family have paid tribute in this article, by the Lancashire Telegraph.

Below are a range of bereavement support services for you to access following this news and if you feel your child needs additional support, please contact us via your child’s Head of Year, or directly to Mrs Cox (Rcox@QEGSBlackburn.com) or Mr Vyse (NVyse@QEGSBlackburn.com).

Childline

  • For all school age children and young people

Young Minds

  • The UK’s leading charity committed to improving the emotional wellbeing and mental health of children and young people.

CHUMS

  • Mental health and emotional wellbeing service for children and young people.

Breaking Bad News (to people with learning disabilities and/or autism)

Samaritans

Grief Encounter