Learners from Kids Milestone, an independent school in Midrand, will be placed at neighbouring schools with available space, Gauteng MEC for education Matome Chiloane confirmed on Tuesday.
According to reports, the school’s management was notified about a pending eviction by the land owners which was effected on Tuesday.
The department said it is unfortunate that learners will have to endure a delay to the start of term three, which began on Tuesday, after recess.
The officials from the department visited the school and conducted assessments for the placement of about 200 learners at neighbouring schools.
“Accordingly, communication with learners’ parents has begun and we appeal for necessary cooperation. We call upon parents not to panic, as the department is attending to this matter,” said Chiloane.
“Sadly, all these occurrences are unfolding during the start of term three, which coincides with an important day in the global calendar, Mandela Day, dedicated to a leader who had his best interests in children and education.”
Chiloane said it is baffling that the eviction was effected on the eve of term three, but noted that the department is not in a position to interfere in private disputes between the school and land owners.
He said: “As such, ours is to prioritise the interest of our learners and parents, which is the provision of quality education.
“Our officials from our independent schools unit, Johannesburg east and Tshwane south districts will work tirelessly to identify schools and place all affected learners in an orderly manner.”
The Kids Milestone Primary School was renting at the Bushiri Ministries properties.
Books, furniture, and other belongings were unceremoniously removed and left out of the school gate on Monday, causing distress and uncertainty among parents and learners.
According to sources close to Sunday World, the Bushiri Ministries acquired the property a few years ago, however, it was sold to a new owner who evicted the school.
A letter seen by Sunday World shows that the school had been notified on June 13 to vacate the premises. The principal, however, claims they were taken by surprise.
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