Elite Brisbane school rocked by sudden death of student

An elite Brisbane private school is grappling with the shock death of a student, with classes finishing early and multiple events cancelled.

All Hallows’ School student Stella Medeiros-Hodge died by suicide on Sunday night. Picture Instagram

An elite Brisbane private school is grappling with the loss of a student who died by suicide at the weekend.

All Hallows’ School student Stella Medeiros-Hodge died by suicide Sunday night.

The school sent an emotional email to parents on Tuesday afternoon advising the community of the Year 9 girl’s death.

Stella Medeiros-Hodge. Picture Instagram

Stella is the beloved daughter of Lucia and Iain, and the sister of Year 12 student Isabella.

In the email sent out Tuesday afternoon, Principal Catherine O’Kane said it was with “profound sadness” she shared the news of Stella’s passing.

“At this very sad and difficult time, Stella’s family have requested privacy,” Ms O’Kane said.

“I know that our community will respect this with the utmost sensitivity and care.

“I also encourage you to speak with your daughter about responding to this news with compassion and the thoughtful use of social media.”

All Hallows’ School, Brisbane, on Tuesday. Picture: Tara Croser

Ms O’Kane said they understood a “tragic loss” like this may be “deeply confronting and confusing for your daughter and for you as a family”.

“Given the nature of this information, some students may exhibit a heightened emotional response and may want to seek answers or more information from you, their peers, or school staff,” Ms O’Kane said.

“When engaging in these discussions with your daughter, it is important to validate her feelings and queries and explore together how you can identify positive ways of managing this.”

Ms O’Kane urged parents and caregivers that it was okay if they did not have the answers to her questions.

Stella Medeiros-Hodge. Picture: Instagram

“… below are links to services that may provide assistance. For many young people, being present with them and actively identifying strategies together builds trust and encourages help seeking,” she wrote.

“Furthermore, it is important to promote healthy ways of coping and to seek advice from a trusted adult if your daughter is worried about herself or a friend.”

Ms O’Kane said parents and caregivers may wish to monitor their daughter’s engagement with social media and the amount of time she is spending online.

“At school, our counselling team and additional counsellors are available, and a support room has been set up - details of this will be explained to students at school tomorrow,” she wrote.

“Appointments to see a school counsellor can be made in the normal way.”

Ms O’Kane said in addition, the school’s pastoral and teaching teams would continue to gently check in with students, both individually and in group settings, to monitor well-being and offer support as needed.

“Above all, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your head of house if you have any concerns about your daughter or if there is anything for us to be aware of,” she wrote.

“Tomorrow, the chapel will be open at lunch time for any students or community members who wish to spend time in prayer and reflection.”

All Hallows’ School on Tuesday. Picture: Tara Croser

Ms O’Kane said if parents were worried about their daughter, she encouraged them to contact their local GP or the services listed in her email.

“I would like to thank you for your understanding regarding the need to not hold the scheduled parent student teacher meetings this afternoon,” she wrote.

“I also want to let you know that we have postponed the spirit week activities that were planned for the remainder of the week, and the Adderton house mass scheduled for tomorrow (Wednesday morning) has been postponed.”

Ms O’Kane said they would provide updates regarding alternative arrangements for the listed events as soon as possible.

“At this time, it is our expectation that all other scheduled activities will continue as planned. I know that you will keep Stella and her family in your hearts and prayers and I will provide details of Stella’s funeral when these become available.

“The following prayer may offer a way for your family to come together in support during this time: Loving God, in times of sorrow and loss, you are with us. May your love surround the Medeiros-Hodge family, bringing comfort and strength. Help us to trust in your mercy and to carry Stella’s memory with love and grace. Be near to all who are grieving and grant us your peace. We ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.”

Other Catholic schools are also reeling from the news.

Iona College has expressed its deepest sympathies over the tragic death.

The bayside college has itself grappled with the loss to suicide of two students in recent years.

“The entire Iona College community sends our love, prayers and support to our friends at All Hallows’ School, particularly the family and friends of Stella Medeiros-Hodge, as they come to terms with this terrible and tragic news,” the school posted on social media at 5pm Tuesday.

“May God’s strength and comfort be with you. May He bless you all, and take Stella into his care.”

Originally published as Elite Brisbane school rocked by sudden death of student