Reddam House has been rocked amidst allegations of sexual abuse at the school by one of their own, at least six boys having fallen victim to a music teacher.

Whilst the teacher cannot be named it is alleged that he fondled at least six boys, aged nine and 10, during his lessons and informed sources say he may have abused as many as 10. The news will come as a massive shock considering that Reddam is one of the Cape’s more prestigious schools, some of the city’s wealthiest parents opting to send their children there. IOL reports:

Confirming the arrest, police spokesman Captain FC van Wyk said the 32-year-old suspect was arrested after an investigation which lasted over a month-and-a-half.

Van Wyk said the man appeared in the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday on charges of sexual assault.

“The suspect was released on R2 000 bail and was given strict bail conditions which included that he must not be in the area where the school is situated and he must not have any contact with the victims, teachers or anyone at the said school,” he said.

It appears the teacher has lawyered up with the best in the business, hiring top defence attorney William Booth to represent him in court.

Reddam have confirmed the teacher in question has been let go and are shocked at his misconduct:

“The FCS (Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit) of the SAPS is currently conducting a full investigation and the individual concerned has been arrested and charged; a legal process will be followed,” said Sheena Crawford-Kempster, the managing director of Reddam House.

She added that the independent music service provider concerned came to their school with an impressive CV, and the usual checks were made before the school contracted him.

“There was nothing to suggest to us that he might ever engage in the behaviour he is accused of. We assure parents and the public that we use utmost care in selecting our staff and we deeply regret what has happened. Reddam House continues to offer support to the families involved.

The case has now been suspended until September 29 pending further investigation.

[source:iol]