A SENIOR staff member of a Cape Flats primary school is at the centre of an investigation into disturbing allegations.
The man is facing allegations of “inappropriate conduct” made by five learners at school in Bridgetown, Athlone.
The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) is aware of the serious allegations and told the Daily Voice that it is cooperating with law enforcement in the ongoing investigation.
While the South African Police Service confirmed that it is looking into the matter, no charges have been brought against the educator.
When our sister newspaper, the Daily Voice contacted local ward councillor Rashid Adams to ask if he was aware of the situation unfolding at the school, he said he had only seen unconfirmed claims on social media and could not comment on unverified information.
Adams said: “I have only read about it on various group chats. I cannot comment. This is a sensitive matter.”
Meanwhile, WCED is handling the matter with all urgency and sensitivity.
WCED spokesperson Bronagh Hammond told the Daily Voice: “The department is aware of allegations that have been made against a staff member at Blossom Street Primary School.
“The current investigation relates to allegations of inappropriate conduct against learners. Five learners have made allegations.
“The Department takes these allegations extremely seriously and is cooperating fully with the South African Police Service (SAPS) as part of an ongoing police inquiry into the matter.
“At this stage, no arrests have been made.
“In addition to the criminal investigation, the WCED has initiated the necessary labour relations and disciplinary processes in accordance with departmental procedures.
“The staff member concerned is currently not at the school.
When asked if the Department was aware that the staff member had been the subject of allegations in the past, it said: “According to our Labour Relations Directorate, no previous disciplinary action/charges has been taken against the educator.
“We wish to reassure parents, learners, and the broader school community that the school remains stable and that teaching and learning are continuing as normal.
“The Department has arranged psychosocial support for learners, with social workers and other support personnel available at the school to provide assistance.”
SAPS, meanwhile, said that an investigation is under way, but no case has been registered yet.
Police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg said: “The matter was reported to Nyanga FCS Unit; however, no criminal case was registered yet. This office will give an update once a formal case is registered.”
