UPPER HUTT, New Zealand – The Upper Hutt College community is reeling from a disturbing incident in which a group of students attacked a senior student during lunchtime. The assault, which was captured on video and shared on social media, has sparked outrage and concern among parents and authorities.
The video shows two junior students aggressively attacking a senior student, while other students filmed the incident on their phones and looked on. The victim was left bruised and shaken by the attack, prompting her family to contact the police.
The school and the police are currently investigating the incident, and the Year 9 and 10 students involved may face suspension. The principal, Judith Taylor, described the assault as unprovoked and has expressed concern about the culture of silence and fear among students, which prevents them from reporting bullying or harm.
The incident has not only affected the victim but also the wider student body, with parents disclosing that their children have been disturbed and saddened by the attack. The school is taking steps to address the issue by implementing an online portal for students to report harm anonymously, in an effort to encourage them to speak up.
Taylor emphasized the seriousness of the assault and the importance of creating a safe environment for students to share their concerns. She also highlighted the damaging impact of sharing the assault on social media, which further traumatized the victim.
The principal is working closely with the families of the two students involved, and a decision on their punishment will be made following a disciplinary hearing. The incident has prompted discussions about the need to address the culture of silence and the fear of reporting incidents of bullying and harm in schools.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of the attack, there are calls for a stronger stance against bullying and violence in schools to ensure the safety and well-being of all students.