Allegations of mistreatment and systemic issues at Lenasia South Secondary have left parents and students deeply concerned. One parent shares a heart-wrenching account of their child’s experience, shedding light on claims of bullying, bribery, and administrative neglect at the once-prestigious institution.
Dear Editor
What has happened to Lenasia South Secondary?
From being one of the top schools in Lenasia South and the surrounding districts, it is now probably one of the worst schools, from drugs, fighting, bullying by students, bribery to get place in the school, and now the students are being bullied by teaching staff as well?
I would prefer to remain anonymous to protect my child, but on the 1st day back at school, which was supposed to be an exciting day for my son, it turned into the worst day ever.
When he arrived at school, him and several other students were singled out by the teaching staff. The reason they were told was, 1. not paying school fees, 2. not collecting their reports due to outstanding school fees, and 3. outstanding textbooks. Mind you, I’ve completed all the relevant documentation required to exempt him from school fees as he is a SASSA Child Grant recipient, and we have in our possession his report which states that he was promoted to the next grade, also all his textbooks were handed in before the school closed in 2024.
These students were never assigned to a class, they were forced to sit outside in the sun and then later in the pouring rain. When my son asked to go to the office to call me to fetch him, he was denied this. While other students were starting active lessons, these children were being bullied by the staff who are supposed to be teaching them.
The principal seems to encourage this behavior, because, instead of allowing the children to be sent to class he ignored the actions of his teachers and teacher aides.
What kind of a principal does this? What empathy does he have for his students?
What happened to the free education that was promised to us by the government? Does the principal of a government school have the legal right to decide who he wants in the school based of how much of a bribe the parent can pay? Does the principal of said government school have the right to endorse bullying of students by his teaching staff?
I am an unemployed parent, and as such I can’t afford the fees of a private school, but is this the treatment my child will get because I am unemployed? This goes against my child’s right as a human, never mind a South African Citizen!
The SGB representatives seem to side with the principal when approached for assistance. What is the use of having an SGB? The Deputy Principal seems to also side with the principal’s behavior of treating the children like inferior beings. Why become a teacher if you don’t have the will and passion to teach and mold the leaders of tomorrow ?
A Concern Parent.
*Globe Post has written to the Gauteng Department of Education for its feedback on the allegations raised. Update to follow…
Your voice matters! We value your input on the issues shaping our community. Share your thoughts, concerns, and ideas with us—call or WhatsApp 010 230 0325. Together, let’s make a difference!
