Janet Ottley, from Heathfield, was headteacher of Herne Junior School in Crowborough.

Allen McKay, chairman of governors, said the school had gone from strength to strength under her strong leadership.

He said: 'The staff and governors of the school are deeply saddened at Janet Ottley's tragic and sudden death.

'She was passionate about education and children's learning was central to all that she did.

'She cared immensely for each and every child at the school, wanting the best for them all.'

Mr McKay said the headteacher had been an inspiration for both children and adults.

He added: 'She set high expectations of everyone and guiding them to achieving this.

'Janet was a very highly valued and respected member of the school community and she will be sorely missed by us all. Our thoughts at this time are with her family.'

A message on the school's website said: 'The whole of the Herne Junior School community are very saddened with the tragic death of our headteacher Janet Ottley. Our thoughts are with Alan, Poppy and Angus at this most difficult of times.'

East Sussex County Council also paid tribute.

A spokesman said: 'We were shocked and saddened at the news of the death of Janet Ottley and our thoughts and sympathies are very much with her family at what must be a very difficult time.

'Janet was a well-respected and popular head teacher whose enthusiasm and wisdom made her a role model to her peers. We are giving the school every possible support as it comes to terms with what has happened.'

Mrs Ottley died on November 2.

Tributes can be left below or emailed to: sussex.express@sussexnewspapers.co.uk