Former Hoërskool Waterkloof principal to fight dismissal in Labour Court

Former Hoërskool Waterkloof principal to fight dismissal in Labour Court

The fallout from one of Gauteng’s most closely watched school disciplinary cases is far from over.

Just days after his dismissal, former Hoërskool Waterkloof principal Chris Denysschen has confirmed he will challenge the outcome of the process in the Labour Court, arguing that crucial findings against him are materially flawed and legally unsound.

From respected school to public scrutiny

Denysschen, who joined the Pretoria-based school in 2018, became the subject of intense scrutiny last year after allegations surfaced involving inappropriate conduct on campus. These included claims that he made crude jokes, directed derogatory remarks at an overweight teacher, and hugged a pupil without consent.

In June, the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) moved him out of the school on precautionary grounds, transferring him to the Tshwane South district office. The department said this was done to protect the integrity of the disciplinary process, amid concerns about possible interference with witnesses.

Guilty findings and dismissal confirmed

Last week, an arbitrator at the Education Labour Relations Council found Denysschen guilty on four of the six charges brought against him. The ruling led to his dismissal, which was formally confirmed on 13 January.

GDE spokesperson Steve Mabona confirmed that Denysschen is no longer employed by the department. His legal representative, Helena Strijdom, has also confirmed the dismissal, while making it clear that the matter is heading for further legal review.

According to Strijdom, Denysschen has been advised that he has good prospects of success in the Labour Court, where he plans to challenge what he describes as erroneous and unfounded findings from the arbitration.

A case that struck a nerve in school communities

The case has sparked strong reactions among parents, educators and former pupils not just at Hoërskool Waterkloof, but across Gauteng’s school system. On social media, some have welcomed the dismissal as a sign that schools are taking allegations seriously, while others have urged caution, stressing the importance of due process and fair hearings.

The matter has also reopened conversations about power dynamics in schools, professional boundaries, and how complaints are handled within education institutions.

Investigation welcomed by private security firm

Specialised Security Services founder Mike Bolhuis, whose firm became involved in the matter, has welcomed the outcome of the arbitration.

Bolhuis said his office was approached in October 2024 by concerned parents, teachers and pupils who wanted an independent investigation into allegations surrounding the school and its reputation. A detailed report was later submitted to the Gauteng MEC for Education.

He emphasised that no pupil, teacher or parent should feel pressured into silence when faced with inappropriate behaviour in a school environment, encouraging communities to speak up when concerns arise.

What happens next for the school?

While the legal battle moves to the Labour Court, Hoërskool Waterkloof is focused on stabilising its leadership. The school governing body has confirmed it is in discussions with the education department regarding the appointment of a new principal.

For many in the school community, the priority now is restoring trust and ensuring a safe, professional environment for pupils and staff alike, regardless of how the court challenge ultimately unfolds.

As the case enters its next phase, it is likely to remain a flashpoint in debates about accountability, fairness and governance in South African schools.

{Source: The Citizen}

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