SafeWork SA investigating St Andrew’s school, where principal is fighting bullying allegations

A prestigious Adelaide private school is facing an investigation by SafeWork after it was revealed its principal was subject of a separate bullying probe.

One of Adelaide’s most elite private schools is facing a second investigation, after one was launched earlier this year into the conduct of its principal.

The SafeWork SA investigation comes months after staff and parents made more than 20 complaints, including bullying, against Jackie Becher.

But while SafeWork confirmed an inquiry had started into the Walkerville school, it declined to detail what it concerned. The initial investigation into complaints against Ms Becher – led by former senior deputy president of the Fair Work Commission Matthew O’Callaghan – has been continuing since March.

The school charges annual fees of $16,880 for reception students, rising to $22,890 for year 6.

A member of the St Andrew’s community told The Advertiser staff were feeling “anxious” and were worried they might lose their jobs by speaking out.

“It is long past time for the board to start acting in the interests of the school,” they said.

Responding to those concerns, St Andrew’s board chairwoman Peta St Clair told The Advertiser: “The school board’s priority is the wellbeing of staff and students.

St Andrew's School principal Jackie Becher was appointed in January 2021.

She said “procedural fairness to all concerned” was another priority. Staff and parents said they were distressed by a lack of communication from the school board about the ongoing investigation by Mr O’Callaghan.

A staff member who wished to remain anonymous said the last update staff received was in April. They said Ms Becher was continuing in her position.

“We haven’t heard anything from the board since April, they have completely forgotten us,” they said.

“For many of us our anxiety levels are through the roof because there’s been no communication, meanwhile the woman continues making decisions and running the school.

“We are the ones that have been feeling stressed. We are the ones who are anxious in the classroom.

“It’s so disrespectful because at the end of the day we teachers are the ones who look after the kids, not the leadership, and the board doesn’t even consider us.”

After The Advertiser contacted St Andrew’s for comment on Monday, an email was sent to the school community updating them on the initial investigation.

Ms St Clair wrote: “Mr O’Callaghan has completed his investigation and the board intends to share the outcome with everyone in the next fortnight.”

Independent Education Union SA secretary Glen Seidel said it was “unusual” for the school to allow Ms Becher to remain in her position while under investigation. “Presumably everybody’s walking on eggshells,” Mr Seidel said.

Originally published as SafeWork SA investigating St Andrew’s school, where principal is fighting bullying allegations