Auckland, New Zealand – The Auckland Secondary Schools Principals’ Association has highlighted the ongoing challenge that student attacks pose to schools nationwide. The recent incident at Ōrewa College, captured on video, where a student was subjected to violence by a peer while others watched and screamed, has brought attention to this issue.
In the video, a female student can be seen physically assaulting another female student, while bystanders urge her to stop. Despite the victim falling to the ground, the attacker continued to kick and step on her. The police have been involved in investigating the assault and are working to support the victim and her family.
The President of the Auckland Secondary Schools Principals’ Association, Karen Brinsden, emphasized that schools are continually challenged by incidents of student violence. Implementing strategies to prevent such behaviors and creating a safe learning environment for all students are top priorities for schools and principals.
According to Brinsden, external influences from students’ lives outside of school can often impact their actions within the school setting, leading to issues like bullying, harassment, or physical altercations. Each school has its own approach to managing conflicts and fostering respect among students, with a focus on maintaining a safe and inclusive educational environment.
In 2022, Ōrewa College faced previous incidents of violence, prompting a meeting with parents, law enforcement, school staff, and the principal to address concerns raised by the community. Parents expressed fears about the safety of their children, the lack of a culture of speaking up, and a need for better communication and swift action to address issues of bullying and misconduct within the school.
The meeting highlighted the urgency for schools to take proactive measures to ensure the well-being and safety of students, addressing concerns about disciplinary actions, communication strategies, and overall school culture. Parents emphasized the importance of creating a secure environment where all students feel valued and protected, underscoring the need for collaboration between school leadership, staff, students, and parents to address underlying issues and implement effective solutions.