Watch: Video of attack on Bedfordview schoolgirl goes viral, 7 learners suspended

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) said it’s deeply concerned by the incident in which a Bedfordview High School learner was assaulted, allegedly by seven girls from various schools, in Yeoville earlier this month.

“According to our information, the victim reported the matter to the school on May 12. She alleged that the unfortunate attack took place at one of the houses in Yeoville, where the learners reside.

“A disturbing video of the assault has since gone viral on social media,” said the department in a statement.

Bedfordview and Edenvale News reports that the perpetrators include four learners from Bedfordview High School (three in Grade Eight and one in Grade Nine), a learner from Queens High School (Grade Nine), one learner from Kensington High School (Grade Eight), and one learner from Phoenix College (Grade 10).

All implicated learners were swiftly suspended by their respective schools and appeared in court yesterday, facing charges of common assault, the department said.

The schools have begun internal investigations into the misconduct of the learners involved, in line with the codes of conduct and applicable disciplinary procedures.

The department will provide psycho-social support to all affected learners, including the victim.

The GDE strongly condemns such acts of violence among learners. The GDE said that violent behaviour among learners, whether within school grounds or beyond, is unacceptable and will carry serious consequences that may affect learners’ education and long-term prospects.

“We reaffirm that fostering safe, respectful and supportive learning environments is a top priority for the department,” read the statement.

“We also call on parents and guardians to play an active role in shaping the values and conduct of their children. Building a non-violent society starts at home.

“Parents must work hand-in-hand with schools and the department to instil discipline, empathy and accountability in our learners.

“Together, we can cultivate a society of respect towards educational institutions, which will ensure that Gauteng schools remain safe spaces for quality learning and teaching.”

The GDE urged all learners to speak out against bullying and any form of violence, whether directed at them or their peers.

The department said silence only protects the aggressor, and that can lead to more misconduct.

Learners are encouraged to report incidents to a trusted teacher, school leadership, parents or guardians, or at the nearest GDE district office.

For additional support, learners can contact the South African Depression and Anxiety Group on 0800 567 567 or reach out to Childline South Africa on 116.

Both are free, confidential and available 24/7.

Incidents of bullying or violence can also be reported directly to the GDE via WhatsApp on 060 891 0361 or through the GDE contact centre on 0800 000 789.

• The identities of the accused cannot be made public because they are minors.

@bedfordview.edenv

Bedfordview High girl assaulted by learners from multiple schools after they lured the girl to a house in Yeoville, Johannesburg before the attack. Gauteng Department of Education has launched an investigation. #Schoolbullying

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