The Tribune

By LEANDRA ROLLE

Tribune Chief Reporter

lrolle@tribunemedia.net

THE Ministry of Education, Science and Technology has begun grief counselling and psychological support for students and staff at Harbour Island All Age School following the drowning of student Jayden Ferguson.

Jayden, a 15-year-old tenth grader, was found on Pink Sands Beach on Tuesday morning, days after he disappeared while swimming on Sunday.

He had told his mother around 4pm that day that he was going to study with a friend but later went swimming with another boy. The pair got into difficulties in the water, and while the other boy made it back to shore, Jayden did not.

Police, assisted by residents, searched the area for two days without luck after being hampered by bad weather.

Jayden’s uncle, Henry Solomon, who helped lead the search effort, found his body on the beach after being alerted by concerned residents.

In a statement yesterday, Education Minister Chester Cooper expressed sadness over Jayden’s death, saying it was heartbreaking when someone so young and full of promise died suddenly.

He said the loss had deeply affected Jayden’s family, classmates and the wider school community. Harbour Island All Age School reportedly closed early after news of his death spread.

“Mindful of the emotional impact of this tragic loss, grief counselling and psychological support for students and staff began on Tuesday, 27 October, with the assistance of local pastors and a psychologist,” he said.

“The ministry, through its Eleuthera District Office, will continue to support the school community during this difficult time.”

Mr Cooper also extended condolences to Jayden’s mother, Garthia Saintville, family, friends and classmates, saying he would pray for their strength and comfort.

Jayden was described by family and friends as creative, athletic and someone who loved helping his family.

He leaves behind a mother, two younger siblings and numerous other relatives.