Canberra high school student dies following accident at Mount Ainslie

Students at Campbell High School were at the mountain for physical education class. It is believed the accident involved a heavy log.

The year 10 student was taken to Canberra Hospital after the incident just before noon, but later died.

In a letter sent to the school community, Campbell High principal Steve Collins extended his condolences to the family, as well as his sympathy to the school community.

"Right now, our role is to stand close as a community and allow the family the time they need to grieve," Mr Collins said.

"I encourage us to support each other as a community. Reach out and talk with each other and support those around you.

"Look out for signs that your children might be struggling with what happened."

Education minister Yvette Berry said she was deeply saddened by the tragedy.

"I express my utmost sympathies to the family, friends and loved ones of this young person, and the school community," Ms Berry said.

"The ACT government will support the family and the school in any way it can.

"I encourage everyone to be sensitive to the family and the school community during this difficult time."

Staff and students have been offered counselling.

The school social, planned for Thursday night, was cancelled.

Emergency services were called to the reserve off Treloar Crescent about 11.20am.

The southern end of the summit trail was closed while the incident was examined.

An ACT Policing spokesman said police responded following reports a high school student was injured.

"The student was transported to hospital, and police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident and liaising with the ACT Education Directorate," the spokesman said.

A witness at the scene said police blocked people from walking up the mountain, however, there were no such limits walking from the top and the majority of the path wasn't blocked.

Parents of students at the school were notified of the incident via email earlier on Thursday.

Opposition leader Alistair Coe and shadow education minister Elizabeth Lee released a statement saying their prayers were with the family of the student.

"The Campbell High School community deserves all the support that the Canberra community can offer," the statement said.