Police in Auckland say they are investigating after a Somerville Intermediate student suffered serious face injuries on 8 August, 2024. Photo: Supplied
The father of a boy who was assaulted at an East Auckland intermediate school says he does not know why his son was attacked, while the principal says it was not a racial incident.
Patrick Choo's son, 12, suffered cuts on his cheek after allegedly being punched by another student at Somerville Intermediate, on Thursday afternoon.
The incident happened between his son and another student during their lunch break, Choo said.
"The other classroom student, [beat] him," he said.
"My son [was] real hurt, and bleeding."
Somerville Intermediate principal Yolande Franke said the student's parents were informed that there would be a full investigation and the school would arrange a time to meet to discuss what had been established. She said they will meet with the affected parties on Monday.
"In all instances, the school observes natural justice principles to ensure all affected parties are given the opportunity to be heard and that decisions are based on all the available information," she said.
"There has been ongoing contact with the family. We continue to be responsive and act with care. Our school has a positive and caring culture and we take incidents like this very seriously."
She said it was not a racially motivated incident.
Choo's son wore glasses, which would have been pushed into his face as he was punched, Choo said. He had no idea why his son was attacked, he said.
"No reason, yeah, no reason," he said.
"We don't understand [why] the student hurt my son."
Choo said the school needed to communicate with the parents of the other student to get answers as to what happened and why.
"The school should follow up for this case, communicate for the parents, but the moment, the school, [has not given] any response," Choo said.
After RNZ contacted Choo, he informed reporters the school's principal had called him to arrange a meeting.
Police said they were aware of the attack, with officers responding just before 4pm on Thursday.
"The victim suffered serious facial injuries and was taken to hospital," a police spokesperson said
"Enquiries are in the very early stages and police are working hard to understand the circumstances surrounding the incident. Victim support is being provided."
