Arabic version: المعلمين ينفون تهم الاعتداء في محكمة كوينبيان

Four educators accused of assaulting students at a Queanbeyan school did not attend court, when their lawyers said they would fight the accusations. According to ABC News, the educators pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Investigations began in November last year after it was alleged that four staff members assaulted two students, aged 9 and 10, at the school between August 2024 and June last year. Two women aged 65 and 63, and a man aged 38 were each charged with one count of common assault, while a 46-year-old man was charged with three counts of common assault against the two children.

The case was heard in Queanbeyan Local Court, where it attracted significant media attention. The court proceedings have been adjourned, with the next hearing scheduled for June.

A spokesperson for the NSW Department of Education expressed concern over the allegations, stating that the four staff members are not currently working at the school. The department has reported the matter to its Professional and Ethical Standards Directorate and is collaborating with NSW Police on the ongoing investigation. The spokesperson emphasized that the safety and wellbeing of students and staff are the highest priorities and that the school remains appropriately staffed to support students’ learning needs.