A Western Cape teacher has been suspended after a video emerged of her mocking a Grade 1 pupil for not having money to buy a pie during a school fundraising event. The incident occurred at Thembalethu Primary School in George, where the teacher allegedly made fun of the pupil in front of his classmates, instructing them not to share their pies with him.
According to Western Cape education department spokesperson Bronagh Hammond, the teacher will remain suspended until a formal investigation has been conducted. Hammond described the incident as “totally inappropriate” and said that the department has taken the decision to temporarily suspend the teacher, pending a formal investigation by the Labour Relations Directorate.
Investigation Underway
The education department has launched a thorough investigation into the incident, which has sparked widespread outrage among parents and community members. The department has also offered counselling support to the pupil and his parents, arranged by the department.
The incident has also sparked a fundraising effort, with social media influencer Mandisi Tshingana calling on people to donate money to support the pupil. By the time of publication, over R40 000 had been raised.
Reaction from the Community
The incident has sparked a strong reaction from the community, with many people expressing outrage and disappointment at the teacher’s behaviour. A protest was held outside the school, with parents and community members calling for action to be taken against the teacher.
According to the Department of Basic Education, teachers have a responsibility to create a safe and supportive learning environment for all pupils. The department’s website states that teachers must “treat all learners with dignity and respect” and “create a positive and inclusive learning environment”.
The following are some of the key issues that have arisen from this incident:
- The importance of creating a safe and supportive learning environment for all pupils
- The need for teachers to treat all learners with dignity and respect
- The impact of bullying and humiliation on pupils’ well-being and academic performance
The Western Cape education department has pledged to ensure that all learners are treated with dignity and care, and that appropriate professional conduct is upheld at all times.
