The head of Bishop’s Diocesan College in Cape Town has admitted that several boys have been affected over a number of years by alleged sexual offenses by a former teacher at the school.
Guy Pearson said in a statement that the investigation into serious sexual offenses by Fiona Viotti, former history teacher and polo coach at the school, is still ongoing. Viotti resigned shortly after it was revealed that she had a relationship with an 18-year-old learner at the school.
“It appears that several boys have been affected by this over a number of years,” Pearson said in the statement. “A call was made for boys and parents to come forward with any information they had regarding the case.” He also confirmed that Viotti resigned and had already left the school.
Dave Mallet, Viotti’s father and history teacher at the school, said in a letter to parents yesterday that he was supporting his daughter during this difficult time. Viotti got married last year.
“We are doing everything possible to ensure the psychological well-being of our sons, employees and others affected by this sad affair,” Pearson says. With this in mind, the school called on the services of several psychologists, including a psychologist employed by the Bishops Sports Unit. “External clinical psychologists and psychiatrists are also available to any son or family member affected by the events,” Pearson says.
Nude photos that Viotti allegedly sent to certain boys have been doing the rounds on social media since the weekend. According to Pearson, it is still unclear who distributes these photos.
“Again, we ask that the dignity and privacy of the individuals affected by this case be respected as we investigate the full extent of the situation,” Pearson says.
Police are not currently investigating a criminal charge against Viotti.
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