By Geoff Vause
The conduct of a teacher at Rathkeale College is under investigation by the Education Council.
The allegations being investigated, which have aroused “community speculation”, also involve St Matthew’s Collegiate.
But while the investigation is underway, both schools are refusing to elaborate on what the conduct concerns.
Yesterday the Ministry of Education confirmed it was looking into allegations made against the teacher, with the ministry’s acting deputy secretary Steve Stuart saying the matter had been passed to the Education Council.
Mr Stuart said Rathkeale College was being offered support “where appropriate”.
“Matters of an employee’s conduct need to be resolved by a board of trustees as the school’s employer,” Mr Stuart said.
St Matthews Collegiate principal Kiri Gill released a statement saying the school could not say much about the allegations.
“It is inappropriate for us to provide specific information in relation to the questions you have asked as there are ongoing matters and it is not in the interests of our young people for us to do so.
“The emotional and physical safety of our students is of paramount importance to us,” Ms Gill said.
“We are aware there has been community speculation and there is unfortunately a considerable amount of mis-information circulating,” she said.
“St Matthew’s Collegiate Board of Trustees ensures that all issues that involve student safety and wellbeing are dealt with promptly, lawfully, and appropriately, and that all of the necessary steps are taken to inform and involve external agencies as required.”
Rathkeale principal Willie Kersten released an almost identical statement.
The boys-only Rathkeale College is part of Masterton’s Trinity Schools with Hadlow Preparatory School and all-girls St Matthews Collegiate.
Each school has its own board of trustees.
St Matthews board chairman Richard Toovey said it was now a management matter and he had “nothing further to add”.
