Grade four boy dies after swallowing R5 coin at Western Cape school

A Grade four Western Cape pupil tragically died after swallowing a coin.

The Department of Education spokesperson Millicent Merton said the incident took place at Hibernia Primary School in George.

“We are deeply saddened by the death of an 11-year-old Grade 4 learner.

“It is suspected that he accidentally swallowed a coin while entering a classroom on Wednesday, September 4, 2024.

“Despite the swift response and best efforts of the school staff, including trained first aid responders, he tragically passed away.”

Merton said the district organised trauma counselling for his classmates, teachers and staff at the school.

“We would like to extend our condolences to his family and friends, as well as the broader school community.”

Western Cape police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Malcolm Pojie said Conville SAPS opened an inquest docket following the incident at a local school in George.

“It is alleged that the 11-year-old boy suffocated after swallowing a R5 coin.

“When medical assistance arrived, the boy had already succumbed and was declared as deceased.”

In another incident in July, a Grade 7 learner died in hospital after she fell from the second floor of her school building

It is alleged that Clair Aucamp fell from the second floor balcony at Laerskool Mayville.

Following the tragedy, the Gauteng Department of Education Steven Mabona said they were deeply concerned.

At the time he said the Department had launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding this incident.

He said a Psycho-Social Support team had been sent to the school to provide the necessary support to all those affected.

IOL News