Gloriavale Christian School is the focus of a new police inquiry into child abuse.
Police, Oranga Tamariki and the Ministry of Education confirmed that an investigation has been launched at the West Coast school after questions were raised by 1 NEWS.
It’s believed some staff have been stood down. Two-hundred-and-four students from year 1 to 11 attend the school, which is 60 kilometres from Greymouth.
“As there is an ongoing investigation it would be inappropriate to comment,” said a police spokesperson.
It’s believed some staff have been stood down.
Oranga Tamariki echoed that sentiment.
“We can advise an investigation is underway, for privacy reasons we are unable to provide any further details.”
The Ministry of Education confirmed it was aware of the investigation and that it was in contact with the school.
The Teaching Council did not want to comment as “it would interfere with police evidence and criminal proceedings”.
Last year, the Education Review Office criticised the school for “not providing a physically and emotionally safe place for students”.
Claims of sexual abuse against women and children at the West Coast commune have been under investigation by police and Oranga Tamariki since last year. A number of men are now before the courts.
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