Milnerton High School
1Min
South Africa
Oct 22, 2025
Western Cape Education Department confirmed that eight learners have been issued precautionary suspension letters following an internal investigation by the school. The department explained that the learners involved were identified and interviewed as part of the process, which was immediately initiated after the incident came to light.
Grade 12 learners at Milnerton High School are in the middle of writing their National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations while the school addresses the fallout from a violent bullying incident that occurred last week.
The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) confirmed that the situation has caused significant distress among learners. In response, counselling and psychosocial support are being provided to affected pupils to ensure all learners can write their exams in a safe and calm environment.
WCED Director of Communication Bronagh Hammond confirmed that precautionary suspension letters have been issued to eight learners involved in the assault of a peer.
The eight learners are seen in a video circulating on social media physically and verbally attacking a grade 10 learner while others stand by – some even cheering on the perpetrators.
“Upon becoming aware of the incident, the school immediately initiated an internal investigation. Learners involved were identified and interviewed as part of this process. Following the initial findings, the School Governing Body approved the precautionary suspension of eight learners. This decision was taken to ensure a fair and transparent disciplinary process, while prioritising the safety and wellbeing of all learners at the school,” said Hammond.
She said the suspended learners will now face formal disciplinary hearings in accordance with the relevant disciplinary procedures.
The WCED urged the public to refrain from further sharing or distributing the video footage of the incident. The circulation of such material not only exacerbates the trauma experienced by the victim, but also undermines the rights and dignity of all learners involved.
“We remind the public of our collective responsibility to protect minors and uphold their right to privacy and safety,” said Hammond.
The WCED said it is committed to supporting the school community and ensuring that appropriate action is taken in line with departmental policies and the law.
