Minister with responsibility for education, Karl Samuda, has ordered an investigation into an incident in which a teacher at the Pembroke Hall High school allegedly threatened a student with physical harm.

The incident was captured on video and has been widely circulated on social media.

In a release today, Samuda said the behaviour displayed is unacceptable and has no place in Jamaica’s schools.

He stated that teachers have a daily influence on the lives of children and are held to high standards.

Mr. Samuda noted that in the midst of all of their responsibilities, teachers are required to serve as strong role models and demonstrate ethical behaviour as they interact with students, colleagues, parents and others.

He is reminding school administrators and governance bodies to enable an environment that will promote appropriate behaviours for teachers, parents and students.

Despite this, the minister said public sector teachers are expected to act with professionalism and decorum while conducting classes, notwithstanding challenges dealing with difficult or uncooperative students.