A 16-year-old Nigerian schoolboy has been found dead near London, England, just hours after collecting his GCSE exam results.

The circumstances surrounding the death of student Temidayo Josesph – known as Simon or Dayo – were not clear but it is not being treated as suspicious.

Simon, who was a talented footballer and athlete, went to Ockendon Academy near Thurrock, Essex, on Thursday to collect his results.

His death was announced in a school statement yesterday morning.

Posted on the school’s website, it said: “It is with great sadness we have to tell you of the death of one of our students, 16-year-old Temidayo Joseph.

“We wish to extend our deepest sympathy for Dayo’s family, friends and the whole school community at this difficult time.

“To help people come to terms with this tragic event, the academy will offer its fullest support and counselling.

“Of course our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time.

“The Academy will be open on Saturday 23rd August from 9am to 11am for those members of our community who wish to pay their respects to Dayo Joseph.”

Tributes flooded in on social media and dozens of pupils laid flowers outside the school gates during the day.

A Twitter account set up in Simon’s memory, called @RIPSimon, said: “Simon you was such a positive loving boy you didn’t deserve to go we all miss you very much! You are in a better place now.”

@dannyo123_ wrote: “can’t believe we lost such a funny, big hearted young lad, he had so much potential and so much going for him. R.I.P dayo!”

@brittanyobrienx said: “Ockendon will not be the same without dayo. RIP simon everyone will miss you so much.”

GemmaLilley10 tweeted: “Such a sad atmosphere all through Ockendon and Aveley. everyone’s so greatly affected by the loss of this charming boy x”

@BaileyKing26_ said: “Didn’t talk much to Dayo but he will be missed by so many people. Amazing athlete. Part of the unbeaten Ockendon football team.”

@superiorjayb wrote: “Always said hello to me ... May your beautiful soul rest in perfect peace RIPSimon. This is so sad man.”

@CharlieAshpole tweeted: “Rip dayo, playing football every Sunday with you was a joke, can’t believe it you were a joker and always has a smile! Rip peanut.”

@Kelsey_Kiely said: “Can’t describe how I feel right now. RIP Dayo, God has gained an amazing angel you will be truly missed.”

•Adapted from a Daily Mirror report. Photo shows late Dayo Simon and the school which he attended before his death.