GEORGE NEWS - A 14-year-old learner of Eden Technical High School (THS) was seriously injured in an alleged bullying attack last Thursday, 30 April, shortly after a school rugby match.

The incident followed an U19 fixture between Eden THS and Parkdene Secondary, which Eden THS won 10-5.

The attack reportedly occurred just outside the school's grounds, near one of the school's entrances in York Street.

The learner, who had been officiating as an assistant referee during the match, was on her way back to school after she had gone to buy something at a nearby café, when she was allegedly approached by four of her fellow learners.

According to the reports, this group attacked her without warning. One of the girls allegedly grabbed her around the neck and head and repeatedly struck her, while the others prevented the bystanders from intervening. A friend who attempted to assist the victim was allegedly pulled away.

"We don't know why this happened," said the guardian of the young referee. "She is not friends with these girls and had no prior conflict with them."

The girl sustained some head injuries and was taken to the George Mediclinic after experiencing nausea, vomiting and confusion. Some of her hair had been pulled from her scalp, and she suffered severe headaches and swelling on one side of her face and lips. 

"She had to eat through a straw for a few days," said the guardian. "We had to take her back to the doctors over the weekend for further observation and treatment."

The guardian said the school had made psychological counselling available to the victim.

The school was approached for comment, but stressed that it was not in a position to provide any at this stage, since the Western Cape Department of Education was still busy with its investigation. 

WCDE Spokesperson Bronagh Hammond confirmed the school acted immediately after becoming aware of the incident. 

"The parents of all learners involved were informed and the school has instituted the necessary disciplinary procedures," said Hammond. 

"The district office has been informed of this concerning incident. The matter is being handled with the seriousness it deserves and the necessary disciplinary and support frameworks are being followed to ensure due process and to support a safe school environment."

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