Eden Marine High School principal Paul Morris is firmly leading the school community of students, staff, teachers and parents through the tough days and weeks that inevitably follow the loss of a member of that community, and the severe injuries sustained by two others.

Mr Morris spoke with the Magnet on Tuesday afternoon.

“On Monday morning we had a whole school assembly where we spoke to the kids about what was happening, and about dealing with stresses and anxiety and just dealing with the accident.

“After that we split into year groups and teachers and year advisers talked about what had actually happened.

“There was a lot of incorrect information on FaceBook and chinese whispers around. It upset many of the kids so we gave them the facts and a chance to talk.

“We had two counsellors from the school and the district guidance officer on deck.

“We also brought on two extra relief staff and volunteer staff as well.

“Kids who were grieving met in the library and were made comfortable and had someone to talk to.

“We had a short assembly at the end of the day and were proud of how very caring and supportive of each other everyone had been throughout the day.

“I made contact with the parents of one of the kids involved (in the accident) and was able to let the kids know that they (the kids in hospital) weren’t in a condition to receive their well wishes just yet, or to receive visitors, and that we needed to give them time and peace in which to heal.

“There are other ways they can put their thoughts down: through collages or PowerPoint’s or poetry or whatever/however they want to express their care for the people and their relationships with them.

“On Friday we’re having a mufti day and the kids can donate and make funds available to help support Kylie’s family.

“I’ve heard that it is ok with the family to help support the Poyner family. I will talk with Debbie Quayle (Kylie’s mother) this week about how we can help support them.”

“The staff have been fantastic - it’s been absolutely wonderful - the support from staff for each other and the kids, and the kids’ support for each other.

“The whole school community has come together and worked on this.

“The kids are good. Some students have been more affected than others. Some are more able to manage their grief. That’s human nature.

“They certainly have been excellent in the way they’ve managed themselves.”