Forensic teams have been examining the scene

Luke Walmsley, 14, died following the incident at Birkbeck School in North Somercotes near Louth.

The school remains closed as police continue to investigate what is being described as an "altercation" in a corridor between lessons.

A post-mortem examination is being carried out, with the exact cause of death expected to be announced on Wednesday.

Police have not yet confirmed what kind of weapon was used in the stabbing.

Forensic examination

Students who witnessed the incident are due to be questioned, in the presence of their parents, by specially trained police officers.

A team of counsellors has been brought in to talk to staff and students who feel they need help.

After the incident, the scene was cordoned off as a forensic examination was carried out.

Everybody obviously is very shocked at what happened and very concerned that something like this should happen in our community. John Stevens, chairman of governors, Birkbeck School

John Stevens, chairman of governors at Birkbeck School said on Wednesday: "The atmosphere last night was very subdued in the village.

"Everybody obviously is very shocked at what happened and very concerned that something like this should happen in our community.

"We are all waiting for the police to give us indications as to what exactly happened.

"All we know is that there was an altercation between two boys and the result was that one had received those fatal wounds."

School system

A few children gathered outside the school on Tuesday night.

Just inside the gates, on a small grassed area, were four bunches of flowers. One card placed with the floral tributes read: "Luke, you'll forever be in our minds. Live in peace. Kirsty, Tyler and Stacey."

The teenager's death would "send shockwaves" through the school system, said general secretary of the National Association of Headteachers, David Hart.

"My reaction is one of utter horror," he said.

'Terrible tragedy'

"It does demonstrate very clearly the fact that although this level of violence is very rare, there are an incredible number of youngsters who are willing to sign up to the knife culture and bring an offensive weapon into school."

Parents and other local people in the small community have also spoken of their shock.

One parent said: "It was very worrying, I was worried myself.

"I thought it might be my lad until I came here and talked to the staff."