WCED spells out stance on bullying

IN LIGHT of the recent bullying incident at a Parow primary school, the Western Cape Education Department has reiterated its stance on bullying.

“The WCED has a policy called Abuse No More that provides clear guidelines on how to deal with various forms of abuse, including bullying,” said WCED spokesperson Millicent Merton.

Last week, Corne Geyer, 13, was allegedly beaten by an older boy at Parow West Primary School. He is currently undergoing counselling and will need extensive surgery to repair the damage to the bones in his face.

The alleged bully had been suspended and faces a disciplinary hearing, the department said.

“Parents are key to identifying behavioural changes in their children which could be as a result of being bullied,” Merton said.

The school concerned had a code of conduct prohibiting bullying and fighting on school property, Merton said, but the department was also investigating the incident.

“We issued a circular in September 2016 to remind schools to review codes of conduct periodically to ensure that they achieve their purpose in line with the constitution.”

A code of conduct was also intended to promote good behaviour and set a certain standard for positive discipline.

“A code of conduct contains disciplinary rules for learners, and it is important that these rules must be correctly consulted, implemented and enforced to ensure a disciplined and democratic school environment,” Merton said

Ongoing training and support for teachers was provided by the department. “Professional staff are available at all times in districts to assist and advise schools on issues such as bullying.

“The districts also run a number of initiatives, awareness campaigns and training programmes in schools, which include learners signing anti-bullying pledges.”

The Safe Schools initiative also encompassed pupil behaviour, and made provision for pupils who were at risk of being bullied.