Separate exam venues after violent fight at JG Meiring High School

Separate exam venues have been set up for learners at JG Meiring High School in Goodwood following a violent fight captured on video.

In the footage, a large group of boys can be seen attacking another pupil, with weapons flying through the air. Other pupils are screaming and crowding the boys during the incident. 

The incident occurred outside the school premises on Friday, October 24, shortly after the school day had ended.

A concerned parent said this was not an isolated incident. 

“There is a documented history of escalating violence (including prior stabbings and frequent fights) that the school leadership has failed to control. This is compounded by the severe decay of the school's facilities, creating an unsafe and chaotic environment for students.”

The parent said the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) needed to take accountability for the “safety crisis” at JG Meiring. 

Violence at the school has been an ongoing issue - the stabbing of a pupil last year sparked protests from parents outside the school over violence. 

In September, a mother told Cape Times’ sister publication Weekend Argus about the psychological and physical torment her Grade 10 son had endured as a result of repeated bullying at the school. 

Her son was attacked, robbed and intimidated by a group of around 20 boys. He was also shoved down a flight of stairs. 

WCED spokesperson Bronagh Hammond said the school is aware of the latest altercation.

“Upon learning of the incident, the principal immediately informed the relevant district official and initiated the school’s disciplinary process. The matter was also reported to the South African Police Service (SAPS), and the school continues to cooperate fully with their investigation. All learners involved were called in with their parents. Psycho-social support was offered through the school counsellor and the district support team. The separate accommodation of learners during the examination process has been arranged,” she said. 

Hammond did not confirm whether any pupils had been suspended or expelled.

“The school is equally concerned about the behavior of learners and continues to work with the WCED to strengthen safety measures and improve learner discipline. Psycho-social interventions and disciplinary processes are in place when an incident occurs, and the school actively seeks swift resolutions within policy frameworks,” she said. 

Police did not respond to requests for comment on the incident by deadline. 

Cape Times