The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has taken the decision to shut down Crowthorne Christian Academy due to its illegal operations. The academy, located in Midrand, had been under scrutiny by the department for compliance with education regulations and standards.
Originally, the GDE had intended to support and guide the school towards compliance and development. This involved assisting the School Management Team through necessary regulatory processes for proper registration. The department also aimed to engage in a transformative process that would align the school's values with democratic principles, the Constitution, human rights, and educational norms.
However, the situation took an unexpected twist when GDE officials visited the school on August 17, 2023. The academy's gates were locked, and the premises were closed off, preventing any interaction with the authorities. This act baffled officials, as they had successfully gained access to the premises just three days prior, on August 14, 2023.
Despite numerous attempts through various communication channels and physical visits, including involvement of law enforcement agencies, the school management remained unresponsive and continued to keep its gates shut.
As a result of the school's failure to cooperate and its apparent illegal operation, the GDE issued a notice of closure. This decision affects the entire student body of the Crowthorne Christian Academy. The department is now focused on facilitating a seamless transition for the affected students to alternative educational institutions.
The GDE acknowledges the importance of providing quality education to all students and believes that Crowthorne Christian Academy does not meet the necessary standards for effective education. Parents of students enrolled in the academy are encouraged to get in touch with the department for assistance in finding suitable alternatives for their children's education.
Source: Yasuf Abramjee
