Milnerton High School has publicly reaffirmed its commitment to safety and respect amidst a growing backlash over a recent incident of student violence that has garnered widespread attention on social media.
In a detailed statement released on Monday, the school expressed its deep sorrow and distress regarding a video’s graphic footage of older students assaulting a younger peer, a disturbing occurrence that has rattled the entire community.
‘This is not who we are, what we stand for is clearly expressed in our commitment to nurturing a community of integrity, care, and excellence,’ the statement reads.
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The school acknowledged that the violent incident is a breach of these foundations and has understandably shaken trust in the safety of the school environment.
Addressing parents, staff, and students, the school stated, ‘This is a painful moment for everyone connected to Milnerton High School. Please know that we share your distress and that we are dealing with this matter with the utmost seriousness, compassion, and care. With your support, we will recover and emerge stronger and more united.’
As the investigation unfolds, additional incidents related to the original bullying are surfacing and are being followed up with urgency and a commitment to adhere to applicable codes and regulations, the school said.
Milnerton High reiterated its stance against violence, stating emphatically that there is ‘no place for bullying, intimidation, or humiliation at our school.’
The administration is taking an active role in promoting an educational atmosphere where learners feel safe and supported, reinforcing that schools should be sanctuaries of learning, growth and moral courage where conflicts are resolved through empathy rather than aggression.
To complement their efforts, the School Governing Body and leadership have begun discussions to develop a comprehensive plan aimed at enhancing safety, discipline, and positive behavioural support within the school environment, according to the statement.
In the aftermath of the incident, Member of Parliament Nqabayomzi Kwankwa revealed the process of identifying alternative organisations to offer psychosocial support and professional counselling for affected students.
This decision arose after parents expressed concerns during a meeting last week, voicing that they were not adequately informed about counselling sessions initially arranged through government channels.
Kwankwa noted, ‘All the parents indicated that they had not been informed by the school or the department about the counselling sessions offered to their children. They only became aware of these sessions after their children mentioned them upon returning home from school.’
