VIDEO: School accused of abuse, under investigation
JOBURG - A school in Doornfontein is being investigated by the Department of Education for abuse.
A video depicting the abuse of youngsters at the New Model Private College in Doornfontein, has been leaked and the Gauteng Department of Education has begun disciplinary action against the school.
The video, which was sent to the North Eastern Tribune via WhatsApp, shows a teacher from the school hitting numerous schoolchildren. The video was secretly taken by a classmate, who wished to remain anonymous. He said that not every teacher does this, but the majority will use the method to discipline an entire class.
The pupil added that, once a year, members from Umalusi Council visit the school but claimed that the teacher told them to lie to the department. The council sets and monitors standards for general and further education and training in accordance with the National Qualifications Framework Act.
A spokesperson for the Department of Education, Oupa Bodibe said, “The department views this matter in a very serious light. Corporal punishment has no place in our schooling system and we strongly condemn it as it is prohibited by law.
“The department officials visited the school [on 2 March] for further investigation of the matter. The school board of governors and the principal are handling the matter and the implicated teacher is facing assault charges. The principal will inform the department of the outcome once the disciplinary processes have been completed.
“We call on all educators to refrain from all types of misconduct because educators should lead by example to ensure that learners mirror their conduct in creating safe school environments, conducive to effective teaching and learning.”
The North Eastern Tribune has attempted to contact the school governing body for comment, but with no success.
