Six learners at Milnerton High School have been expelled following a shocking bullying incident that shook the school community last year. The incident, which was caught on video and widely shared online, showed a Grade 10 learner being viciously attacked by a group of fellow students.
The footage sparked national outrage and urgent demands from parents and activists for stronger measures to combat violence in schools.
The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) confirmed that the expulsions came after the school’s disciplinary hearing, which was subsequently upheld by the department.
According to WCED spokesperson Bronagh Hammond, “Following the outcome of the disciplinary process, the Head of Department has endorsed the school governing body’s recommendation to expel six learners from Milnerton High School.”
Of those expelled, five are in Grade 12, while one learner is in Grade 10.
Criminal proceedings underway
Eight learners connected to the assault face criminal charges of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. While six of the accused appeared in Cape Town Magistrates’ Court, two minors are being dealt with separately in the Children’s Court.
Eric Ntabazalila, spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority, explained that all eight were released on bail after being found to have no prior convictions or outstanding warrants.
The case has been postponed to March to allow for further investigation, including the review of photographic evidence and consultations with the victims.
Strict bail conditions imposed
To safeguard the victims and maintain the investigation’s integrity, strict bail conditions have been set.
“They must not contact any witnesses or complainants, directly or indirectly, and must avoid all interactions with them,” said Ntabazalila.
The accused were also required to hand over their cellphones, which are being retained as evidence.
Since their release, the learners have been barred from returning to Milnerton High School. Arrangements have been made for them to write their final examinations at a separate venue under supervision.
Minors appear in Children’s Court
The two juvenile accused have had their court appearances postponed as investigations continue. One was remanded until early February, and the other until mid-March.
The case dates back to October 2025, when a 16-year-old Grade 10 learner was subjected to a brutal attack by fellow students, some reportedly from the school’s rugby first team. The viral video drew attention to ongoing bullying and violence at the school.
So far, eight victims have come forward with complaints of multiple assaults.
The accused first appeared in court in late October 2025. The case was delayed to allow the learners to complete their examinations, which were facilitated by the WCED in an alternative setting.
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