By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) has confirmed suspension of eight pupils from the Milnerton High School, pending an ongoing investigation in a bullying incident.
This comes after a disturbing video of a 16-year-old Grade 10 learner was filmed being beaten with sticks at the school. The attack is said to have taken place on October 16.
The incident is believed to be part of an initiation ritual, during which several Grade 10 learners were assaulted by Grade 11 boys, with some identified as members of the school’s first-team rugby squad.
Police spokesperson Wesley Twigg said no arrests had been made.
“Milnerton police are investigating an assault to cause grievous bodily harm case involving a 16-year-old learner at a Secondary School in Milnerton. The incident is said to have occurred on 16 October 2025, at about 2:40pm. The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation,” said Twigg.
The school was made aware of the video on October 17, and initiated an investigation immediately, according to the Western Cape Education Department (WCED).
“Following the immediate and initial investigation by the school governing body, they have met and they have issued precautionary suspension letters to eight learners,” said WCED Communications Director, Bronagh Hammond.
“They will now face a disciplinary hearing, the school is treating this with the seriousness it deserves and has acted upon the allegations and the video that has emerged.”
Hammond has urged members of the public to refrain from further sharing or distributing the video.
“Circulating such footage not only exacerbates the trauma experienced by the victims but also undermines their right to dignity and privacy. We appeal to all individuals to act responsibly and sensitively by removing the video from social media platforms and reporting any further circulation to the necessary platforms as harmful content.
“This is an ongoing process with the school following all the necessary protocols and procedures as reported to the WCED.”
Meanwhile, Joy Maimela, chairperson of the Portfolion Committee on Basic Education, expressed her ‘utter horror and deep concern’ regarding the assault report. ‘What occurred is not merely bullying but borders on assault a criminal offence that demands urgent and decisive action from all relevant authorities,’ Maimela remarked.
She called on education officials to ensure that schools are safe havens for students, emphasising, Schools must be safe spaces for learning and growth, not fear and humiliation.