DAGGA CAKES ON FIELD TRIP
Disciplinary action is being taken against 14 learners from PEPPS College outside Polokwane after dagga cakes were distributed and consumed during a trip undertaken by learners of the school. The learners visited Southern Cross High School in the Hoedspruit area for a sports derby on 24 May.
PEPPS College head, Leigh Melville clarified the situation and events that resulted from the incident in an attempt to create awareness and transparency of such incidents which might otherwise go unnoticed at schools.
“These students took the dagga cakes on the field trip and shared it with seven of their classmates, bringing the total number of learners who partook in the eating up to 14,” she told Polokwane Observer exclusively.
Melville explained that all the 14 learners involved in the incident have since been taken to give urine samples after verbal permission was granted by their parents. All 14 learners tested positive for marijuana, she said.
According to the guidelines and the PEPPS Code of Conduct, it is prescribed that anybody found in possession of or using drugs will face immediate suspension, which has led to the suspension of the first seven learners who were the masterminds behind the preparation of the cakes. “The other seven learners who tested positive but were not directly involved in the distribution of the cakes will be punished by means of other disciplinary measures which can include manual labour and detention. The seven learners who have been suspended are now awaiting their hearings during which a disciplinary panel will decide on a route of action,” said Melville.
Instead of hiding the events Melville decided to take a stand and be an example to other schools that could face such situations in future. She explained that it is the business of all schools to take children on field trips to broaden their knowledge and realising that these trips involve risks is the first step in handling possible unsavoury situations. “I believe the threat of not fitting in or not telling on guilty parties is a greater threat than many people think. I am disappointed and shocked but I wouldn’t say ashamed as all people, children included, make bad choices and it’s all about how you support them through those bad choices.”
Melville says the Polokwane Police were notified of the incident and although no leads have been uncovered pertaining to the origin of the dagga used in the cakes, an investigation will focus on all clues. At Melville’s request the Polokwane Police were asked to do more regular checks at the school, including inspections employing sniffer dogs to ensure no drugs enter the PEPPS premises any time in the future.
“Please be assured that these events have not been treated lightly. Education is a triumvirate formed by the child, the parent and school and together we will go forward and be better prepared than ever before because of this situation which we are now facing together,” Melville affirmed.
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Dagga cakes on field trip
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Disciplinary action is being taken against 14 learners from PEPPS College outside Polokwane after dagga cakes were distributed and consumed during a trip undertaken by learners of the school. The learners visited Southern Cross High School in the Hoedspruit area for a sports derby on 24 May. …read more
