SPECIAL assemblies are being held at a Suffolk school today after a ‘vibrant’ teacher was killed in a car accident while she was out jogging.

Katie Colson, a science teacher at King Edward VI School in Bury St Edmunds, died in the crash on Friday, at Littleport, near her home in Cambridgeshire.

Miss Colson, 28, had worked at the school for the past six years and was admired by students and colleagues alike.

Staff and students have been told the tragic news as they return from their half-term break today.

Geoff Barton, headteacher of the school, last night said: “This is devastating news for the whole school.

“Her talent, professionalism and endless optimism were an inspiration to us all. School is going to feel a very different place without her.”

Special assemblies are being held at the school today to break the news to students. A service of remembrance is also planned for later this week.

Mr Barton said Miss Colson’s love of working with young people had led to her promotion as division leader, responsible for the welfare of 175 students at the school.

Thanks to her work and support, hundreds of students had been inspired to study science, take part in sport and develop leadership skills, he added.

“She combined calm unflappability, deep professionalism, a sense of fun and kindness,” Mr Barton said.

“She was such a vibrant person. She was admired by students and colleagues alike.”

The driver of a silver Fiat Punto, a 31-year-old woman, was taken to Addenbrooke’s Hospital, in Cambridge, with serious injuries following the crash at Ten Mile Bank, Littleport, at 7.15am on Friday.

A special room is being made available for staff and students at the school today.

“We will do all we can to build on the wonderful qualities she demonstrated and to make sure that everything she stood for – a love of life, pride in a job well done, a sense of service and high aspirations for all her students – continue as her legacy,” Mr Barton said.

“We are going to miss Katie very much and are thinking at this difficult time of her family.”

Anyone with information about the crash is asked to contact the Cambridge Police Roads Policing Unit on 0345 456 4564.