29 August 2025
Klerksdorp Record, Klerksdorp - A group of balaclava-wearing matrics who caused a ruckus at THS, are lucky to be allowed to write their prelim exams.
This group, comprising of 13 matrics, were hauled over the coals after a video went viral on social media showing their unruly behaviour towards a teacher. The learners were unhappy about the school’s decision not to have a forty days celebration and went ahead disrupting school despite being forbidden to do something.
Principal Rodwell Miles condemned the incident that was caught on camera saying the group of boys held their own unofficial celebration on August 19. In the video they can be seen verbally abusing a teacher, pelting him with water balloons when he tried to get them back in class. They also emptied a bucket filled with water over his head. This was met with outrage from people viewing the video.
Miles confirmed to Klerksdorp Record on Thursday August 21 that 13 boys were charged with assault, disrupting school activities and verbal abuse. They were suspended for five school days pending the outcome of the formal disciplinary hearing that was held on Friday August 22.
“The two main troublemakers who acted violently, were suspended, pending a final decision by die Department. They are allowed to write exams, but has to leave THS if their suspension is upheld by the Department. They will be allowed to write their final exams, but not at this school. They have the right to appeal,” said Miles.
“Another two cannot attend any school activities and are allowed to write exams. A fifth matric is off the hook as he was wrongly identified.”
He added that all 13 boys are banned from attending the school’s matric farewell.
According to Miles, the group showed remorse after the incident. “We are a good school with disciplined children and we intend to keep it that way. We had to act and take tough decisions.”
Education MEC Viola Motsumi condemned the ill-discipline caused by the learners, saying it is barbaric and unacceptable. “We are not going to tolerate learners who assault our teachers, they do not belong in our schools. I instructed the School Governing Body to take drastic steps against these learners. It should send a message to other learners to never attempt such horrible behaviour.”
