School safety : guidelines for improving safety in secondary schools in the North-West Province

Abstract

Schools are no more a safe place in many countries where learners and educators can carry on with their daily routine without fear or intimidation. South African schools are no exception to this unacceptable trend in the behaviour of learners. Violence, abuse and indiscipline are spreading like a plague in our schools. It is a widely accepted fact that effective teaching and learning can not take place in schools where there is prevalence of potential violence and insecurity. In schools where there is safety and order, learners and educators enjoy working in harmony towards achieving the desired outcome. School safety is the educational right of every learner. Legislation with regard to school safety exists in all countries. Every learner has the right to receive education in a safe and orderly environment.