Hutt Valley parents fear bullies' return

Parents of children victimised at Hutt Valley High School want assurances schoolyard bullies will not be back in class next week.

"Students who come forward will be targeted and attacked because anyone who speaks up against these gangs is a nark," one victim's mother said.

"The school needs to provide a safe environment for all these kids to come forward without retribution."

Police are investigating claims of at least five serious attacks in which pupils were partially stripped and violated with objects, including cellphones, scissors, a shoe and calculators.

Five 13-year-old boys and a 14-year-old face court in connection with the claims.

The school originally said the alleged perpetrators would be welcome back this year, but in recent weeks it has refused to confirm this. Board of trustees chairwoman Susan Pilbrow did not return calls yesterday.

Education Minister Chris Carter wants a report, amid new allegations of drug-taking, drinking and sex in college grounds. He wants to know how the Education Ministry will ensure pupils' safety.

The ministry has now deployed a "traumatic incidents team" to provide support. Staff and pupils will be offered counselling.

Parents of at least five victims met board officials on Saturday. They want to meet the full board this week, and want accountability for the attacks.

"We want to know that children's safety can be guaranteed when everyone starts back in a week's time," the mother said.

- © Fairfax NZ News