Mother tells of taunts at school

The mother of the girl who fought to save Tangaroa College student Edward Magalogo has criticised the school for allowing reports about her daughter's role in the tragedy to become confused.

Tu'a Alo's mother, Finiki Alo, yesterday told the Herald that two versions of what happened to Edward were circulating at the school.

In one, Tu'a was trying to save him; in the other, Edward died after trying to save her.

Since the accident, her daughter had been taunted at school by children who believed Edward had given his life to save her.

Mrs Alo believes the school is hiding behind the fact that an investigation is being conducted into Edward's death, to avoid discussing the circumstances of the tragedy or clear up any misunderstanding.

"Why are these people being allowed to spread different stories, when they weren't there? All this business needs to be sorted out. It's making Tu'a gutted."

The Herald has also been contacted by a source saying the tragedy raised "serious questions of accountability" of some staff.

The source claimed changes were made to Tangaroa College's staffing ratio for out-of-school trips last year, leaving "inadequate systems and support in place to ensure that staff and students are safe on school trips".

The Herald understands three teachers accompanied the 35-pupil geography field trip to Muriwai.

Principal Ngaire Ashmore yesterday refused to discuss the death, or any specific allegations, until an investigation is completed.

Education Ministry guidelines for school trips say student-to-supervisor numbers should ensure that learning and safety are "maximised" but they do not prescribe actual ratios.