GEORGE NEWS - Learners cannot be refused entry into a school for being late. This is according to Bronagh Hammond, director of communication at the Western Cape Education Department.

Hammond responded to a query from George Herald regarding learners of Imizamo Yethu Secondary who were not allowed to enter the school grounds this morning because they were late for school.

"The district office is following up with the school regarding events this morning."

Hammond said while at some schools there are often very valid reasons for coming late, especially commuter schools, there are instances where learners are habitually late. 

"Schools must deal with this on a case by case basis, and monitor each learner’s attendance, as well as address habitual latecomers' parents or guardians on this behaviour."

"Learners who arrive late for school can not only affect the learner that is late, due to the loss of learning time, but can also be disruptive for other learners in the class. The department is continuously engaging with schools with regard to latecoming."

She said schools can take various disciplinary approaches when dealing with latecomers, such as detention, compulsory after-school activities, or physical activities such as picking up litter.  Measures to curb latecoming varies from school to school. 

While some measures such as detention work at some schools, at others it may not. Therefore, schools need to determine what measures would best work for them.

Police members on the scene

Sgt Christ Spies, Southern Cape police spokesperson, confirmed that police members were dispatched to the school this morning following a commotion at the entrance to the premises. He said no cases were opened.

Learners cannot be refused entry into a school for being late. This is according to Bronagh Hammond, director of communication at the Western Cape Education Department. Photos: Alida de Beer