The Gauteng Department of Education has today conducted a thorough investigation into the alleged punching of a six-year old learner. The investigation could not establish if the learner was assaulted by an educator. It should be noted that there is considerable difficulty in obtaining evidence from learners of this age. Thus we are handling this matter with sensitivity and caution. We cannot rule out the possibility of something that could have happened between the school and home.
The guardian of the learner has laid a charge of assault with the police and police detained an educator from the school this morning (Tuesday). The police said the educator was identified by the learner even though the educator was not at school on that day. The educator was at an athletics meeting the whole day with many witnesses. The police were in the process of releasing the educator this afternoon.
As soon as the child returns to school, the district will send child psychologists to assist the learner.
The department has a code of conduct for both learners and educators that should be adhered to at all times. Disciplinary action will be taken against any educator who assaults a learner. Learners that assault or threaten to assault another person will be charged with misconduct and face possible expulsion from school.
The department is committed to ensuring that every learner leaves our institutions with the values, knowledge, skills and qualifications that will provide them the best chances of success in adult life.
For more information contact:
Charles Phahlane
Tel: 011 355 1530
Cell: 071 860 4496
Issued by: Department of Education, Gauteng Provincial Government
16 February 2010
Source: Sapa
