Teachers quit at 'staff bullying' school

1.00pm

At least three teachers have resigned from Tokoroa High School amid allegations of staff bullying and other issues.

It is understood that more are likely to leave at the end of the current term.

The school, which was badly damaged in an arson attack last month, has called in a mediator from the Labour Department to investigate the claims.

Those who have handed in their resignations include a head of department and a guidance counsellor.

The board of trustees has also employed an independent consultant to discuss with staff concerns they have at the school.

Post Primary Teachers Association (PPTA) Bay of Plenty chairman Doug Clark said the mediator had been in the school for two weeks, but the school fire during the school holidays had delayed the process.

"He's looking at a wide range of issues, mainly system problems, but they may reflect personnel issues.

"We just don't know until he gives us the report. We hope it will be some time in the next fortnight."

The school lost three classrooms in the fire and the building is in the process of being rebuilt. Police are continuing inquiries.

- NZPA