Violence erupts at Westridge; GDE weighs in
Reports suggest that a group of learners at Westridge High is behind a series of bullying events and violent fights at the school.
The Department of Education (GDE) has stepped in at Westridge High School to try to stem a tide of bullying and violent incidents that have plagued the school in recent weeks.
The Roodepoort Record was contacted by the parent of a learner who has allegedly been at the receiving end of at least two violent attacks in the past two weeks, saying a group of children at the school are running amok, with bullying, cyberbullying, and fights having become a daily occurrence.
According to the parent, there have been at least five fights at the school in the last few weeks, resulting in serious injuries and hospitalisations. Videos have also been circulating on social media.
GDE spokesperson Steve Mabona says the department is aware of the problems and is actively working with the school to address them.
“The department is deeply concerned about the situation at Westridge High School,” he says, adding that appropriate and decisive disciplinary action is being undertaken.
“We can confirm that learners were suspended in the current incidents and disciplinary processes are underway, whereby an appropriate sanction will be recommended.”
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Mabona adds that at least one learner has been expelled from the school.
“It must be noted that where a sanction of expulsion was recommended, it was accordingly acted upon.”
According to Mabona, further interventions by the school included parents’ meetings where disciplinary challenges are a standing agenda item and other communications to parents appealing for their intervention in learner discipline.
“The school’s governing body (SGB) is actively reinforcing disciplinary actions as per the learner’s code of conduct, and teachers are addressing anti-bullying, gangsterism and substance abuse issues during Life Orientation lessons.”
Mabona says that the South African Depression and Anxiety Group also visited the school on February 12, where they addressed learners on drugs and substance abuse, bullying, depression, suicide and trauma.
In addition, a random search and seizure for dangerous weapons and illegal substances was also conducted at the school on February 20.
“We strongly condemn any acts of misconduct which seek to undermine the dignity of our learning institutions. Schools are urged to enforce their codes of conduct to deal with disciplinary matters.
“The department continues to appeal to parents in assisting to enforce discipline in and outside the school environment.”
