First day of school disrupted at Allanridge Secondary School
Community raises allegations of poor school facilities, lack of discipline and overcrowding.
Members of the Rabie Ridge Residents Association (RRRA), parents and community members reportedly shut down Allanridge Secondary School on Tuesday morning, April 5.
“We have been complaining for years now to no avail about the discipline of the children at the school and the conditions of the facility. Parents and community members demand answers,” said Robin Stephens, a member of the RRRA.
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It is alleged that the school is overcrowded and that teachers are not attending to their duties.
“They are just here to receive salaries all while our children are the ones that suffer,” said Stephens.
“The school is operating on a rotational basis where learners attend on specific days despite the Department of Basic Education doing away with this mode of learning.”
One frustrated learner said: “It doesn’t make sense for a Grade 11 learner to come to school twice a week.”
Teachers and learners were initially prevented from accessing the school premises until the Rabie Ridge CPF members assisted children and teachers to do so. The learners were issued with attendance timetables and were allowed to leave.
The Thembisan has not yet obtained comment from the Department of Education or the school.
An urgent media inquiry was sent to GDE spokesperson Steve Mabona, requesting comment on allegations that the school lacks discipline, facilities are poor, is overcrowded, teachers fail in their duties and objections to the school operating on a rotational system.
Comment was requested by 14h00 on April 5. At the time of publishing, no comment had been received.
The Thembisan also awaits feedback from a meeting between the school’s principal and district members.
