A stabbing incident shocked the community of a private Christian-based high school in Somerset West on Friday 23 October.

The violent incident occuured at Helderberg High School, shocking learners, teachers and parents of the educational institution.

Warrant Officer Suzan Jantjies, spokesperson for Somerset West police, confirmed the incident took place at 07:45. “It is alleged that a Grade 8 learner confronted four other learners about an issue,” she said.

The Grade 8 learner, who was apparently armed with a knife, then proceeded to stab two of the learners.

“One was stabbed in the head and a second also stabbed in the head and arm,” Jantjies related.

She added that both learners were transported to hospital for medical attention.

Somerset West police are investigating two cases of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, but no arrest has been made.

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When DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette arrived at the school, some learners were being collected by their parents while others chose to remain at school.

In a statement issued by the school, deputy principal Andrew Mason admitted that a serious incident involving learners had regretably occured within the school community.

“Our immediate priority is the safety and well-being of all learners,” the statement read.

It did not, however, provide further details or the circumstances of the incident, choosing to “respect the privacy and dignity of the learners involved as it is an ongoing investigation”.

The school confirmed it would follow appropriate procedures regarding the seriousness of the matter, saying Helderberg High School is committed to maintaining a safe environment for learners to learn and thrive.

“We ask the school community and the public to respect the privacy of those affected while the matter is being addressed.”

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