IPOH: The international school where a seven-year-old boy was allegedly beaten up by four schoolmates has assured that it would take action to foster kindness and respect.
In a joint statement issued by Seri Botani International School and the families directly involved in the incident, they said that they would continue their commitment to nurturing a positive environment where all children feel safe, valued and heard.
School principal Justin Adams said that in moving forward, the school would strengthen its social-emotional learning initiatives.
"The school will continue to foster a culture where kindness, inclusion and respect are actively taught and practised.
"We commend the students and families for their courage, openness and willingness to grow from this experience," he said in the statement.
"It is our goal to affirm our collective commitment to the safety, wellbeing and emotional development of every child in our care," he said.
"As a community, we remain united in our commitment to nurturing a positive environment where all children feel safe, valued and heard," he added.
It had been reported in a Chinese daily that the mother of the boy was furious after the school had described the alleged beating as just "physical contact" and children "playing".
The victim was said to have suffered immense pain whenever he walked due to injuries and was also threatened with being beaten up again if he were to tell anyone.
A meeting was held between the school and the mother, but she walked away due to not being satisfied with the way the matter was being handled.
Adams said the school, after learning about the incident which occurred earlier this month, had taken immediate steps to understand the facts, support those involved and create a constructive path forward.
"After thoughtful discussions, and in collaboration with the parents, the matter was resolved amicably with care and compassion.
"The children involved have participated in age-appropriate restorative conversations designed to build empathy, responsibility and mutual respect," he added.
