A video showing young primary school children lying on the floor of their classroom as gunshots rang out nearby in the gang-ridden Mitchells Plain community has gone viral on social media.
In the video, a Grade R teacher at Yellowwood Primary School in Tafelsig kept learners calm by playing soothing music, and they lay on the mat and covered their ears.
The Western Cape Education Department confirmed that the shooting incident that was taking place outside the school in the community was allegedly gang-related.
The department’s spokesperson, Bronagh Hammond, says the school immediately implemented its emergency procedures, which require all educators to close the classroom doors, move learners away from the windows and ensure that they lie flat on the ground.
Hammond says this is common safety protocol at schools in the province, adding that this video is a sad reminder of how learners are impacted by gang violence.
” – our schools are unfortunately not immune to criminal activity, but they can be ready to respond in the best way possible when such instances occur.” added Hammond
The department added that both learners and teachers are exposed to violence and trauma, which can have an impact their mental health. It added that this is especially difficult for teachers who are also trying to remain positive and upbeat for their learners.
“We are extremely grateful for our educators and staff who manage schools in these very challenging environment.”
Hammond says the WCED will continue to engage with law enforcement and security agencies to ensure that schools the best possible service in dealing with violence in and around schools.
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