TRIBUTES have been paid to an ‘amazing’ Teesside headteacher who died after a three-year cancer battle.

Karen Gleave spent nearly 18 years at Brambles Primary, where it is estimated she had taught, supported and championed more than 2,000 children and their families.

She has been commended for her dedication to the STEM subjects of science, technology, engineering and maths, while progressing through the ranks at the school. She progressed to become head teacher in 2016.

A dedicated Middlesbrough FC season ticket holder, she enjoyed attending as many matches as possible.

Karen leaves her father Walter, sons Andy and Ross, a sister, brother and grandchildren.

In an emotional tribute, her sons said: “She was an amazing daughter, mother and nana as well as being the best friend and role model a son could ask for.”

Having studied at St George’s secondary school and St Mary’s Sixth Form College in Middlesbrough, Karen had gained a degree in Applied Psychology at Durham University before joining Brambles Primary.

The Northern Echo: Karen GleaveKaren Gleave

Read more: Family's tribute to dad who died after cardiac arrest

The school’s acting head teacher Darren Higgins and Katrina Morley, CEO of Tees Valley Education Trust, wrote to parents and carers on Monday, following Karen’s passing on Friday.

They spoke of their “incredible sadness” in sharing the news about their “remarkable and tenacious colleague and friend”.

In their letter, Miss Morley and Mr Higgins spoke of the school’s “terrible loss”, while paying tribute to their colleague, writing: “She always had time to share and care and was passionate about the talent and brilliance at Brambles.

“Her commitment to children made her popular and she was genuinely loved and respected by all those who were privileged to know and work with her.

“She will always be remembered with so much love and affection.

Keep up to date with all the latest news on our website, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

You can also follow our dedicated Teesside Facebook page for all the latest in the area by clicking here.

For all the top news updates from right across the region straight to your inbox, sign up to our newsletter here.

Have you got a story for us? Contact our newsdesk on newsdesk@nne.co.uk or contact 01325 505054