The man who is accused of assaulting a 13-year-old teenager at the Crowthorne Christian Academy School in Midrand has been released on bail.

He appeared at the Midrand Magistrate’s Court yesterday, and was subsequently released on R2 000 bail. He faces two counts of common assault.

He was arrested after video footage of him manhandling a Grade 8 learner and her mother at the school’s premises on Monday – throwing them out of class – went viral on social media causing a public outcry.

At the moment it is unclear if he was arrested by authorities or handed himself over.

The school remains closed following the assault allegations.

Court

Midrand Reporter journalist Sphiwe Masilela was at the Midrand Magistrate’s Court where the Gauteng EFF and parents demonstrated outside court.

The fact that the man was granted bail has left the victim’s parents and EFF members upset.

Education department

According to Gauteng Department of Education spokesperson Steve Mabona, the school is not fully registered with the department.

The situation was apparently triggered by the teenage learner’s arrival at school with her dreadlocked hair.

The school accused the learner of violating the code of conduct which was implemented in April.

Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane was expected to visit the school premises yesterday afternoon.