The Edenvale SAPS has confirmed that a case of common assault was opened against a teacher from Edenvale High School.
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The case was opened after a teacher allegedly assaulted a learner on September 13.
The principal of Edenvale High School, Dr Larry Harmer, said he also reported the matter to the Gauteng Department of Education as soon as he was made aware of it.
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The learner, *James Pink, said the teacher punched him, threatened him and strangled him while on school property after school hours.
Pink said he was on his motorbike, leaving the school premises and asked a group of teachers to move out of his way so he could get past.
One of the teachers became aggressive when Pink referred to them as “okes”.
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“The teacher punched me three times in the stomach, grabbed my throat, threatened to kill me and hit my helmet,” said Pink.
“I did not know what to do. I wanted to confront the teacher but decided to go to the police station instead,” said Pink.
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Pink and his mother opened a case of common assault at the Edenvale Police Station on September 14.
Spokesperson of the Edenvale SAPS Capt Jean Olckers said the teacher was arrested and released shortly afterwards.
“If it was a case of assault with the intention to cause grievous bodily harm then the suspect would have remained in police custody until they appeared in court, but in this case, the charge is common assault,” said Olckers.
Harmer said on September 14 he called a meeting with the teacher, the parents and the learner.
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“The teacher said they never struck the learner but apologised for any miscommunication and harm caused to the child by the incident. At the end of the meeting everyone shook hands and went their separate ways,” said Harmer.
“A written warning was given to the teacher as per protocol.”
Harmer said the teacher was back at work on September 18.
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“I imagine the department will take the necessary steps once the court has presented its verdict,” said Harmer.
He said Edenvale High has a strict no-bullying policy.
“Learners are encouraged to speak to the school’s social worker or make use of the bullying SMS hotline,” said Harmer.
Harmer encouraged EHS learners to SMS 074 953 0719 if they feel they are being bullied.
He said when instances of bullying are brought to the attention of the school’s staff the correct steps are followed.
“We cannot comment on the matter at this stage as it is sub judice,” said the teacher’s legal representative, Mariska Smit.
A request for comment was sent to the GDE, requesting comment by October 20. No comment has been received.
*Names changed to protect identity of a minor.
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