A MAN who died in Bristol’s Floating Harbour was a “remarkable” teacher at Bristol’s Fairfield High School.
Vincent Le Goascoz, who was 35, was a languages teacher at the secondary school in Allfoxton Road, which counts hundreds of children from Eastville among its pupils.
His body was found by police divers at Redcliff Quay, near Bristol Bridge, yesterday morning.
He had last been seen in nearby Redcliff Street at about 1.30am on Saturday.
Fairfield High School issued a statement today, which said the school’s staff, students and community were “deeply saddened” to have been told of his death.
Vincent taught French and Spanish at the school, which has more than 1,000 pupils, aged from 11 to 16.
Acting principal Edel Cronin said: “We in Fairfield find ourselves grappling with the loss of a remarkable teacher, colleague and friend.
“Vincent left an indelible mark on both students and colleagues alike, despite only joining us last September.
“His smile, relentless positivity and optimism never wavered.
“Vincent’s classroom was a wonderfully fun and joyful environment full of learning, filled with laughter, and enthusiasm for his passion for modern foreign languages.
“He readily embraced school life to the fullest, including joining a camping trip within his first month of being in the school, his focus was always on bringing joy and creating space for our students to have the best memories of their school experience.
Passing leaves ‘immeasurable’ void
“Beyond the classroom, Vincent was committed to inclusivity and being an ally for minority communities, he dedicated himself to facilitating lunch clubs and building relationships with staff and students outside of the classroom.
“The void left by Vincent’s untimely passing is immeasurable, and we extend our deepest condolences to his partner Emily, his family and friends.
“His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched, and the school will forever be grateful for his contributions to education, diversity, and the spirit of adventure.
“We miss you Vincent, but we will do our best in the coming days to channel some of your light.”
The school said it is now providing “a range of support” to help staff and students come to terms with the news of Vincent’s passing.
Vincent had previously taught at Katharine Lady Berkeley’s School in Wotton-under-Edge.
Avon & Somerset police had appealed for information from the public after Vincent was reported missing.
A spokesperson said: “At this stage the death is not being treated as suspicious.
“Vincent’s family has been informed and we’re offering them support. Our thoughts are with them at this very difficult time.
“We’d like to thank the public for their help sharing our appeal to find Vincent and for contacting us with information.”