The school’s principal said the teacher had been put on paid leave while the investigation takes place.
“To the best of our knowledge this is an isolated matter, the allegations concern four students, and relate to outdated disciplinary practices that do not align with our school values, professional teaching standards, or New Zealand law,” they said in an emailed statement to the Herald.
“We take allegations of misconduct very seriously and followed proper process including acting swiftly to notify the appropriate authorities.”
Counselling had been offered to everyone affected.
The school was “also mindful of the risk of misinformation, especially in sensitive matters like this”, noting “the use of the word assault is very broad”, he said.
“We are limited in what we can say while an investigation is under way.”
The teacher has been put on paid leave, and counselling has been offered to those affected. File photo / Getty Images
They were fully cooperating with the investigation and would provide updates when appropriate, the principal said.
“In the meantime, we ask that the privacy of the teacher and students is respected.”
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