The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) is working with Duneside Primary School in Mitchells Plain on strategies to improve security at the school.

While the school has not been classified as a high-risk school, it has experienced several burglaries in recent weeks.

The WCED installed a new burglar alarm system last year, linked to armed response. The WCED is investigating why this did not help to deter recent break-ins.

The alarm system should have detected burglars breaking in via the ceiling. The system itself has now been vandalized and will be repaired.

Most of the windows are covered by wire mesh "stone guards". The Safe Schools Coordinator at the WCED's Metro South Education District Office is checking quotes for covering the remaining windows.

The coordinator will review the school's safety plan with the school management team. Every school must have a school safety plan and a safety committee responsible for ensuring the safety of the school.

The WCED provides funds to schools for emergency repairs, as part of their annual allocations, in addition to funds provided from the Safe Schools budget. Safe Schools will discuss how best to use these funds with the school.

Unfortunately, funds for continual maintenance following attacks by vandals are limited, and we will work with the school to appeal to the local community to assist in helping to ensure the security of the school.