Zara Leigh Holmes, Portland
I began high school at Rocklands High School in 2021, during the Covid-19 pandemic, a time when pupils needed more support than ever. Instead, I experienced repeated mistreatment that ultimately forced me out of the school system.
In Grade 8, our class teacher punished the entire class harshly, including forcing us to write hundreds of lines such as “There is something wrong with me.” Being made to write those words as a child leaves lasting damage. When my mother questioned this, I was singled out rather than supported.
In Grade 9, I was bullied by classmates physically, emotionally, and socially. Despite reporting it, no meaningful action was taken. A psychologist later confirmed that changing classes was necessary for my mental health, yet this was initially refused.
By Grade 12, I felt invisible in a school culture that prioritised top achievers while overlooking struggling pupils.
My mental health deteriorated, leading to anxiety, depression, and self-harm. When I sought help from the school counsellor, I was ignored - she remained on her phone while I spoke.
Though the school promised support, it failed to follow through.
I was excluded from key milestones and repeatedly placed in situations that worsened my anxiety. Eventually, it became impossible for me to complete my National Senior Certificate exams.
Today, I am attending Mitchell's Plain High School and working toward completing my matric.
I share this story not for sympathy, but to break the silence surrounding pupil mistreatment.
Schools have a responsibility not only to educate, but to protect the emotional and physical well-being of every pupil.
How many pupils must suffer before accountability replaces indifference?
Millicent Merton, spokesperson from the Western Cape Education Department, responds:
Rocklands High School collaborates with our district support teams and a local youth development organisation for individualised support.
We encourage all pupils who are struggling, or adults who are concerned about a pupil’s mental health, to reach out to us for help. School staff can seek guidance from our district support teams, which include counsellors and social workers, and our Safe Schools Hotline on 0800 45 46 47 toll-free, which can connect pupils with help from our partner government departments and NGOs.