Portlaoise school 'devastated' by junior infant's death

A PORTLAOISE school said today that staff and students are devastated at the death of pupil Aaron Hussain (5) from Kilminchy, who died in a road collision near his home on Saturday.

In a post on social media today, management at Portlaoise Educate Together NS said: ‘Our school is devastated at the tragic loss of our wonderful Junior Infant pupil Aaron.

‘He was so adored by his classmates and he will be sorely missed by all within our school community, in particular his teachers and the staff who worked with him so memorably and enjoyably.

‘Our thoughts are with his family and especially with his brother Adam and his parents.’ 

Psychologists from the National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) attended the school yesterday, as they supported and advised staff in their efforts to help the children following the tragedy.

Educate Together NS also posted a beautiful school photo (above) together with funeral details for Aaron, who will be laid to rest this Thursday.

The family death notice published today on rip.ie says: ‘It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved son Aaron Hussain, aged 5 who tragically left us on the 22nd February 2025.

'Cherished son of Tauqir Hussain and Irina Novikova and loving brother to Adam.

'Aaron was a bright and loving child who brought joy to all who knew him. He will be deeply missed by his heartbroken parents, brother, extended family, friends, his classmates at Educate Together and the wider Portlaoise Community.

'May his gentle soul Rest in Peace.

'Reposing at Keegan's Funeral Home on Thursday February 27th from 11am. Removal at 1pm to SS Peter and Paul's Cemetery, Portlaoise arriving at 1.30pm for interment prayers and burial.'

Aaron’s grieving mother Irina, who runs Lash studio in Kea-Lew Business Park, said on social media: ‘Our hearts are shattered, but we are overwhelmed by the love and support from all of you.

‘We cannot express how much it means to us during this unimaginable time. It’s hard to believe how many lives our little Aaron touched in his five beautiful years.

‘He was a child full of joy, kindness, and a heart bigger than words can describe. Though we are unable to respond to each of you, please know we see and feel your love.

‘Thank you for holding us in your hearts as we try to navigate this heartbreaking reality.’ 

Educate Together NS implemented its Critical Incident Management Plan to help young students following the tragedy.

School principal Darach Kennedy said in a statement yesterday: ‘We learned over the weekend of the death of one of our students. This is a terrible tragedy for the student’s family, our school and our community.

‘We are deeply saddened by these events. Our sympathy and thoughts are with the student’s family and friends at this very difficult time.

‘The student was a popular and cherished member of our school community and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Offers of support have been pouring in and are greatly appreciated.

‘Our school has implemented our Critical Incident Management Plan. Psychologists from the National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) have been with us all day supporting and advising staff in their efforts to assist our students at this time.

‘Our staff have been helping our students to deal with this tragic event and will continue to do so.’