Staff and students at a Wallington school have come together to pay tribute to “one of their best teachers” who battled cancer for 18 months.

Emily Raketa was a dance teacher at Wallington High School for Girls whose “enthusiasm” rubbed off on many.

Staff at the school praised Mrs Raketa’s determination and courage during her near two-year fight against the illness that ultimately claimed her life and spoke of their great sadness at her passing.

She died aged 40 on February 23, 2015.

A statement released by the school said: “Students and staff at Wallington High School for Girls have been greatly saddened by the recent death of one of their best teachers.”

Headteacher Mrs Jane Burton said: “Mrs Raketa was an outstanding dance teacher who had been at the school since 2010. Her enthusiasm was infectious and she inspired everyone around her, both students and staff.

“She was highly committed to ensuring that students at the school had a wealth of opportunities to get involved in dance through the numerous showcases, clubs and the excellent annual gym and dance display.

“Mrs Raketa was also an ex-pupil of the school and she was very proud to have come back to the school to be a teacher and was a shining example of a ‘Wally Girl’.

“She had bravely battled with cancer for the last 18 months or so. She never gave up, showing huge determination and courage in the face of adversity. She will be greatly missed by us all.”

Since her death, students and staff in the school have been paying their respects, signing books of condolence while a tribute area within the school has been created.

There are also plans for fundraising activities in Mrs Raketa’s name scheduled for later in the school year.