BAD TEACHER

NEW data from a background screening provider has confirmed that almost three percent of school staff in South Africa were flagged for criminal activity, including violent and sexual offences.

It has sparked concern around the country, following the latest information, which was gathered between March 2024 and February 2025.

Background screening provider TPN said the figure slightly improved from last year’s 3.08 percent, this still equates to one in every 34 individuals vetted, from teachers to groundskeepers, having a criminal record. Of those flagged, 1.22 percent had criminal records specifically related to abuse and sexual offences.

In addition, 1.06 percent of staff were flagged as being involved in legal proceedings and awaiting trial, including for offences like assault and malicious damage to property.

Responding to the findings, Department of Basic Education spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga said: “A person awaiting trial is considered innocent until proven guilty. That's according to the law in SA. Schools are required to conduct vetting for all staff that are employed.”

The Daily Voice last week reported that an onnie accused of raping his own minor daughter was reinstatement at Mitchells Plain high school, while a criminal trial is ongoing.

Also last week, a teacher at Manenberg High School was investigated for common assault after claims that he accosted learners who he caught bunking.

Meanwhile, the educator at Symphony High School in Belhar, accused of sexually violating ex-colleague Kelly Manus, appeared in court on charges of common assault with a sexual nature.

National Professional Teachers' Organisation of South Africa CEO Thirona Moodley said vetting should be compulsory and ongoing.

Moodley adds: “Teachers and all school personnel must be beyond reproach. We trust them with the physical and mental well-being of the children of our nation.

“All such employees must be vetted before employment; they are required to disclose any criminal convictions on their application for employment.”

Moodley also flagged a concerning gap in the system. “We must also be conscious of the fact that some sexual perpetrators may not have criminal records because the matter was never reported to law enforcement.

“It’s for this reason the Department of Education must act very quickly on allegations of a sexual nature as well as any other serious allegations against an employee.

“This does not always happen and the person remains in the school or returns after initial suspension because the department failed to act within the timeframe...”