18 Sep 2015

Pacific Christian School denies abuse allegations

2:13 pm on 18 September 2015

The private school in Auckland which is being forced to shut its doors in one week over concerns for student safety is denying allegations of physical abuse.

The Pacific Christian School in Mangere had its registration suspended last week by the Education Ministry.

The school's principal, Lisita Paongo, says police warnings given to the school lacked evidence. Ms Paongo says families and staff are disappointed with the decision and want the school to stay open.

She says they're even more upset because they found out through the media before a formal announcement was made by the school's board.

Pacific Christian School at Mangere Bridge, Auckland.

Pacific Christian School at Mangere Bridge, Auckland. Photo: RNZ / Nicole Pryor

The school came under scrutiny last year, when an 11 year old stabbed another child with a pair of scissors.

A report from the Education Review Office also found the principal and some of teachers were not fully registered.

Ms Paongo says the school is working with the minstry and hopes to resume classes at the start of 2016.

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