A Western Cape primary school teacher has been suspended after a video surfaced of her mocking a Grade 1 learner for not being able to afford a pie during a school fundraiser. The incident occurred at Thembalethu Primary School in George, where the teacher allegedly belittled the child in front of his classmates. According to Western Cape education department spokesperson Bronagh Hammond, the teacher will remain suspended pending a formal investigation by the Labour Relations Directorate.
The video, which was recorded by the class teacher and shared with the parent group, shows the teacher instructing her pupils not to share their pies with the learner who couldn’t afford one. Hammond described the incident as “totally inappropriate” and said that the department has taken swift action to address the matter. The learner and his parents have been offered counselling support arranged by the department.
Background to the Incident
The incident occurred during the school’s “pie day” fundraising event, where pupils were allowed to purchase pies. However, one learner was unable to afford a pie, prompting the teacher’s alleged mockery. It was later established that the teacher had purchased a pie for the learner after the video was filmed, but the manner in which it was done was deemed inappropriate.
Social media users have since rallied around the learner, with influencer Mandisi Tshingana launching a fundraising campaign to support the child. At the time of publication, over R40 000 had been raised. The Department of Basic Education has a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying and mistreatment of learners, and the Western Cape education department has assured the public that it will take all necessary steps to ensure that learners are treated with dignity and care.
Reaction from the Community
The incident has sparked outrage among parents and community members, with some calling for the teacher to be fired. A protest was held outside the school on Wednesday, with education district officials engaging with protesters and reassuring them that the matter is being taken seriously. The Western Cape education department has also reminded educators of the importance of upholding professional conduct and treating all learners with respect and kindness.
Some of the key issues that have arisen from this incident include:
- The importance of creating a safe and supportive learning environment for all learners
- The need for educators to be mindful of their words and actions and how they may impact learners
- The role of the community in promoting a culture of kindness and respect in schools
The incident serves as a reminder of the need for educators to be compassionate and understanding, and to prioritize the well-being and dignity of all learners. As the investigation into the matter continues, the Western Cape education department has assured the public that it will take all necessary steps to ensure that learners are treated with the respect and care they deserve.
