A Tribute to Ethan Waite

Our school community has come together to honour the memory of Ethan Waite, a lovely Year 5 boy who sadly passed away last year.

Thanks to the generosity of the Evendons community, funds were raised to create an amazing Gruffalo sculpture in Ethan’s memory. Chainsaw carver Dave Lucas, was moved by our story and kindly offered to carve the sculpture at a significantly reduced cost.

Dave also shared Ethan’s story with his local primary school in Manchester, West Hoathly C of E Primary, inspiring children there to take part in this special tribute. Each pupil carved their name into one of the Gruffalo’s prickles, which Dave then attached to the sculpture. This remarkable act truly shows the power of community and embodies our school’s motto: Kindness Matters. 

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to this meaningful project, including our generous donors, Dave Lucas, and the pupils who helped make Ethan’s Gruffalo so special.

Headteacher Stacey Read shared her tribute: "Ethan was a boy who loved adventure and excitement. Everyone knew him because he made it his business to know and greet everyone.

His enthusiasm for all his interests was such a joy, and everyone at Evendons - staff and children alike - can recall a conversation or a time we spent with him and how he made us smile.

He had a special place in his heart for the Gruffalo, a story he loved so much. Whether he was listening to the tale, reading the book, or hunting for the character in the school grounds, Ethan's eyes would light up with wonder and delight every time he heard about the mouse’s clever tricks and the Gruffalo’s surprising friendship.

Ethan showed us how to find joy in the things we love. He taught us to be brave, to dream big, and to embrace every adventure with a smile. If there were things he was unsure of, he had his own way of asking questions and then overcoming these fears - a lesson to us all. We will keep Ethan’s spirits alive in our hearts by sharing our passions and making every day an adventure."

Ethan's parents said: "Ethan was absolutely determined not to let the challenges of having Dravet Syndrome stop him from doing the things he loved. He was a thrill-seeker who loved life and always had a smile for everyone. 

Amongst his many passions - Formula 1, rollercoasters and dinosaurs - the Gruffalo always had a special place in Ethan's heart from a young age and wherever he went and whatever he was doing, you could be sure the Gruffalo was there too!

We are so grateful to the Evendons community for supporting us as a family through this difficult time and for contributing to this special memorial for Ethan."

You can see Ethan's little sister and his mum Hayley in the pictures below.

Ethan's Gruffalo