GEORGE NEWS - Pacaltsdorp Secondary's principal, Clifton Titus, is currently absent from the school, while certain hostel staff members have been temporarily relieved of their duties as investigations into the conditions and incidents at the school and its hostel continue.

The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) has also confirmed that certain matters relating to the school governing body (SGB) form part of a broader assessment of the school's functionality and governance.

The WCED's spokesperson, Millicent Merton, said the deputy principal is acting as principal in accordance with normal procedures during the principal's absence. She did not, however, provide a reason for his absence.

"Certain hostel staff members have temporarily been relieved of hostel duties pending the conclusion of investigations and related processes," Merton said.

Alternative arrangements have been put in place to keep the hostel operational.

These latest developments follow the WCED's confirmation last week that its investigation had widened beyond the assault of a Grade 12 learner at the hostel on 6 September. The department said the allegations concerning other incidents at the hostel were being investigated as part of a broader process.

The parents in their peaceful protest at Pacaltsdorp Secondary earlier this month.

The assault, captured on video and widely circulated on social media, sparked anger among parents and residents and led to a peaceful protest outside the school on 11 September. The concerns they raised included alleged inadequate adult supervision, bullying and violence at the hostel.

Merton said the WCED has since introduced additional safety measures at both the hostel and school, including enhanced supervision and screening procedures for learners returning to the hostel. The school also has a safety plan in place.

The department has further confirmed that significant infrastructure upgrades and renovations are included in its Medium-term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) plans.

As for the SGB, Merton said any findings or actions would be determined by the outcome of the relevant investigations and processes.

The 18-year-old Grade 10 learner charged with attempted murder following the 6 September incident was previously granted R500 bail and is expected back in the George Magistrate's Court on 12 October.

‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’