Milnerton High School vows to restore trust after shocking bullying incident
The precautionary suspension on the learners via the school's disciplinary action is expected to end this week.
Image: Ayanda Ndamane/ Independent Media
Milnerton High School has pledged to rebuild trust and restore safety after a violent bullying incident involving its learners shocked parents and the wider community.
In a joint statement issued on Monday, principal Gert van Tonder and School Governing Body chairperson Roger Bezuidenhout said the video showing a younger learner being assaulted by older pupils was “shocking and distressing” and went against the school’s core values of integrity, care and excellence.
“This is not who we are,” the statement read. “We are dealing with this matter with the utmost seriousness, compassion and care. With your support, we will recover and emerge stronger and more united.”
The school said it had begun an inquiry to strengthen safety, discipline and behavioural support, and was exploring partnerships with the WCED, NGOs and restorative education experts. It is also investigating an anonymous digital reporting tool for learners to report bullying confidentially.
Counselling and psychological support have been made available to learners directly or indirectly affected by the incident.
The renewed commitment follows allegations from parents and education watchdogs that the school and the WCED misled parents about their handling of the case. Vanessa le Roux, from Parents for Equal Education, accused officials of dishonesty, saying parents were “lied to” about being contacted and offered support.
Eight learners, including two minors, have appeared in the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court. They were released on bail or warning under strict conditions barring them from entering the school or contacting the complainants.
They are expected back in the dock in January, with a total of eight complainants added to the docket.
The precautionary suspension on the learners via the school's disciplinary action is expected to end this week.
“We understand that words alone cannot undo the harm,” the school said. “That will take time, transparency and consistent action.”