TRIBUTES have been paid to a much-loved teacher following her death at the age of 34. 

Naomi Benneyworth, who taught English at Rednock School in Dursley, died on July 7.

Her sister Liz Grange said she was the most dedicated person you could ever meet and was missed every day by so many.

"She enriched the lives of my three boys with her spectacular knowledge, warming encouragement, and her ability to just let loose and go bonkers to a Disney song playing full blast," she said.

Naomi was the driving force behind Get Rednock Reading, a project designed to improve literacy. 

Rednock headteacher Dave Alexander said: "Naomi was a young teacher who had completed her teaching practice at Rednock School.

"In doing so she fell in love with the school and applied for a job here.

"To say that she was prepared for the interview is an understatement; it exemplified everything about Naomi and her professionalism.

"She was meticulous, driven and utterly committed to teaching. Her sole focus was to improve the lives of the students.

"Naomi took part in many extra curricular activities, sport, drama, Duke of Edinburgh, you name it, Naomi was involved.

"She was passionate about learning and passionate about the impact that it had on children's lives.

"Naomi wanted the best for the students.

"She was involved in the whole school drive to improve the students' literacy which saw great increases in reading ages of the students at Rednock.

"She built strong relationships with staff but notably with the students both in her classes and her tutor group.

"Those students remember her with enormous affection, she would go above and beyond for them.

"We regret her passing but will remember her for the incredible commitment, her energy and her love of the children.

"Her teaching and her relationships will create memories to cherish and inspire a generation to be the best they can."

Naomi, who lived in Stroud, is believed to have taken her own life.

A celebration of Naomi's life will take place from 2pm on August 15 at Stroud Brewery.

All are welcome.

Donations to Get Rednock Reading in her memory can be made at bit.ly/3zab1Fq

Anyone needing help and support in times of difficulty can contact the Samaritans for free at any time on 116 123 or jo@samaritans.org