Former Wesley College Students Allege Longstanding Culture of Abuse

Former students of Auckland’s **Wesley College** have come forward with serious allegations regarding a culture of violence and hazing that they claim has persisted since the **1970s** and **1980s**. These allegations coincide with the recent announcement of hostel closures at the school, prompting a deeper examination of the alleged misconduct within its boarding environment.

Max*, who attended Wesley College as a teenager in the 1980s, described a troubling atmosphere where acts of violence were commonplace. He recounted witnessing several incidents of “coverings,” a practice in which victims were struck on the body using pillowcases filled with various objects, including soap and deodorant sticks. According to Max, these attacks were typically orchestrated by prefects and occurred mainly at night in the hostel dormitories. He expressed his belief that staff members were aware of these rituals yet allowed them to continue unchecked.

Another former student, John*, corroborated these claims, detailing instances of “brutal canings” that left painful welts on the backs of students. He characterized his experience at the school as a “hell hole,” suggesting that the environment was not only harmful but also psychologically damaging for many students.

Allegations of Complicity and Institutional Knowledge

The accounts from Max and John raise serious questions about the oversight and accountability of the school’s administration. They contend that staff members were not only aware of these violent practices but may have also tacitly endorsed them by remaining silent. This alleged complicity has led to calls for a thorough investigation into the culture at Wesley College.

The New Zealand Herald was the first to report on these allegations, shedding light on the experiences of former students who feel that their voices have long been ignored. With the closure of the hostels now imminent, these revelations have reignited discussions about the need for comprehensive reviews of student safety and welfare standards in educational institutions across the country.

The impact of such allegations extends beyond individual experiences. They challenge the integrity of Wesley College and raise broader concerns about how schools manage student behavior and the potential for abuse within their systems.

As the story develops, pressure is mounting on educational authorities to address these allegations seriously and to ensure that no student has to endure such treatment in the future.