The South African Democratic Teachers' Union (SADTU) in KwaZulu-Natal says it is confident that any learning disruptions experienced at uMkhumbane High School in Chesterville can be addressed following the return of educators and the resumption of normal teaching activities.
The school became the centre of controversy earlier this year after principal Ntokozo Ngobese approved the installation of CCTV cameras in classrooms. The move sparked opposition from teachers, who claimed they had not been consulted before the cameras were installed.
In response, educators embarked on a boycott of classes, resulting in significant disruptions to teaching and learning at the school.
The matter was taken to court, and in April, the Pietermaritzburg High Court ruled in favour of the principal, ordering that the cameras remain in the classrooms. Despite the ruling, several teachers continued their boycott, prompting the School Governing Body to appoint temporary educators to ensure learners remained in class.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education has since confirmed that the situation has stabilised, with 22 educators returning to work on Monday.
SADTU KwaZulu-Natal Deputy Provincial Secretary Vuyani Mbhele said the union does not anticipate major learning losses as temporary teachers continued to provide instruction during the impasse.
Mbhele said the union believes the substitute educators fulfilled their responsibilities and ensured that teaching and learning continued while the dispute was ongoing.
He acknowledged that any learning gaps that may have emerged would be addressed by the school's educators, whom he described as dedicated and committed professionals.
Mbhele added that any intervention to support learners should be based on a proper assessment of their academic needs.
He said educators would first determine whether any learning deficits exist before implementing measures to address them, stressing that interventions should be informed by evidence rather than assumptions.
The return of all educators is expected to restore stability at the school and allow efforts to focus on ensuring learners remain on track with the academic programme.