Did these EC teachers ‘dump kids in parking lot’ to go and PARTY?

An investigation has been launched into an alleged 'school trip from hell' - but the teachers involved have their own version of events.

Oct 3, 2022 - 12:03
1119
Did these EC teachers ‘dump kids in parking lot’ to go and PARTY?

Educators at Tolweni Primary School in the Eastern Cape have come under heavy fire this week, after they were accused of ‘seriously neglecting‘ the needs of their pupils. The teachers allegedly ‘dumped the young children in a parking lot’, while they went out for a jol.

Teachers accused of partying while pupils slept in parking lot

Stories emerged on social media over the weekend, accompanied by a set of shocking photos. Images captured a number of children lying down on the concrete floor of a sprawling parking lot. They were all dressed in uniform at the time, sparking concerns amongst onlookers.

  • It was originally alleged that the primary school pupils were left unsupervised, as teachers ‘went off to do their own thing’.
  • The educators have been accused of attending a beach braai, and entering into a local casino.
  • It’s understood the trip took place in the evening, leaving only at 18:00.
  • All adults on the trip supposedly ‘jumped into a different taxi’ – leaving the children to their own devices.
  • Photos which emerged online allegedly show some kids SLEEPING in the car park.
Teachers
Where are the teachers? These children were photographed lying on the concrete floor of a casino parking lot – Photo: Supplied

Primary school kids pictured in casino parking lot – but what has gone off?

However, this version of events has been challenged by two local authorities. Although the Ntabankulu Municipality has confirmed an investigation into the matter, they were forced to set the record straight on one particular issue.

“Ntabankulu Local Municipality embarked on a fact finding mission about this alleged act of negligence, as the school in question was said to be in Ntabankulu. It is now confirmed that the school is under Qumbu, not Ntabankulu.”

“The department authorities from the side of Qumbu are following up the matter with teachers, and giving it the necessary attention it deserves. Those who rang the bell upon discovering this disturbing scene are most appreciated.” | Ntabankulu Local Municipality

Doubts cast over social media posts detailing ‘nightmare school trip’

With the correct local municipality notified, officials representing Qumbu outright rejected the allegations made on social media. Those in the regional government are convinced ‘no mistreatment by teachers took place’, and instead, they insist that this was merely a ‘routine stop’.

With an investigation still underway, a full and comprehensive version of events is yet to be made public:

“The school is indeed at Ward 25 of Mhlontlo Local Municipality in villages that are under Qumbu jurisdiction. No mistreatment from teachers took place. There was a group of learners and educators who waited at the fuel station while others were busy with finding some essentials.”

“They are confirming no one was abused by educators. Parents and learners can confirm this, after a meeting was held at the school to give feedback. Therefore, the pictures circulating of learners from Tolweni Primary School isn’t a true reflection.” | Qumbu Spokesperson