Editorial: Schools must keep kids safe

The investigation commissioned by Bethlehem College into the minivan crash that killed three Tauranga people and a Kenyan provides a clear picture of what can be learned from the tragedy.

In the immediate aftermath of the crash, Bethlehem College was less than forthcoming on conflicting accounts of what occurred when the vehicle crashed on Kenya's notorious Nairobi-Murang'a highway, and who had been driving.

Former Bethlehem College student Caitlin Dickson, 19, school parents Brian and Grace Johnston, and Kenyan national Christopher Mmata were killed.

On Saturday, we reported an investigation commissioned by the school confirmed Bethlehem College student David Fellows was driving the minivan after being encouraged to drive by Mr Mmata. This had been allowed by some tour group leaders.

Board chairman Greg Hollister-Jones said the school accepted Mr Fellows was the driver, despite Kenyan police saying the driver was Mr Mmata.

The report revealed the van that rolled and crashed into a ditch on January 15 was carrying two more people than its stated capacity and that, despite having been made aware of Kenyan seatbelt laws, a number of passengers were not belted in. The school's investigation concluded the school's systems to guide overseas trips had not been strong enough.

In future, students would not be allowed to drive on overseas trips and tour leaders must report any instances of misbehaviour, breaches of rules and dangerous situations.

It appears the families are satisfied that something has been learned from the accident and the school is also planning to send another volunteer mission to Kenya later this year.

This crash has had tragic ramifications for the families who lost loved ones and for those injured. The report has highlighted a number of lessons to be learned and its findings should be noted by other schools that send students on overseas trips. Parents trust that their children will be kept safe on these trips and every measure to keep school tour groups from harm should be taken.