Heathfield High School. Picture: Sisonke Mlamla
David Maynier - Western Cape MEC of Education
Cape Town - We note the letter titled “Heathfield High a shambles, disgrace” in the Cape Times of February 6.
We strongly deny the allegations. It is deeply concerning that dishonest claims would be made in the press and that no verification was undertaken at all.
This is similar to previous attempts to discredit any positive growth and change at the school.
The claim that the school has no timetable is false.
Full-time teaching and learning have been under way, according to a timetable, since school began this term. This is in contrast to previous years where the first three weeks of the school year were allegedly allocated to athletics, with no teaching and learning taking place.
In fact, the senior management team was brought in earlier this year – for the first time – to complete the proper planning and ensure that the school year got off to a smooth start.
A matric afternoon programme is also under way. Additional lessons are being provided for matric learners after school, four days a week.
The claim that “most grades don’t have teachers” is false.
The claim about soccer and smoking in the school hall during assemblies is false.
The first assemblies in the hall are taking place this week, with Grade 12s being addressed on Monday.
Parent meetings across all grades are also being held this week, in keeping with the school’s commitment to keep parents informed.
We urge whichever group is responsible for spreading falsehoods to consider very carefully the impact of such false claims.
Deliberately attempting to instigate discontent and disruption at the school is unacceptable, and will only have a negative effect on teaching and learning.
The letter is a clear attempt to undermine the work being done by the acting principal and senior management team of Heathfield High School.
Cape Times