Petra College faces backlash over teacher retrenchments

Elite private institution Petra Senior School, trading as Petra College, has come under fire after allegedly retrenching several teachers and a non-teaching staff member under unclear circumstances, sparking concerns of procedural irregularities and declining education standards.

The Christian co-educational school, which offers both Cambridge and Zimbabwe Schools Examination Council (Zimsec) syllabi, reportedly issued retrenchment letters to three qualified teachers and one support staff member earlier this month, citing a "mutual separation" arrangement.

However, sources say the move was neither sanctioned by the school's board of trustees nor accompanied by an explanation of how the affected staff were selected, raising fears that the process was arbitrary.

"It's not clear what criteria were used to retrench qualified teachers while leaving unqualified ones," said one insider. "The letters should have been submitted to the board for approval, but that does not appear to have happened."

According to a memorandum of agreement seen by Southern Eye, the teachers' contracts were terminated on three months' notice, effective October 1, 2025.

"Payment of the legislated minimum package as compensation for loss of employment being one month's salary for every year of service as a full-time employee," part of the document reads.

It further states that affected employees will remain on the payroll until December 31, 2025, and will "work the notice period," with all pension contributions to be handled according to the school's fund rules.

Stakeholders, however, argue that the decision has shaken confidence in the school's administration and teaching standards.

Enrollment figures have reportedly dropped to 337 students, down from previous years, as more parents withdraw their children amid growing discontent.

"Parents are deeply concerned that some classes are being taught by unqualified teachers, including individuals with only Ordinary Level certificates," said another source. "It's shocking for a school charging around US$2 000 per term."

The sources added that more withdrawals are expected before the end of the term as families seek alternative schools.

When contacted for comment, Petra Senior School head Rob Aldridge acknowledged receiving written questions but had not responded by the time of publication.

Efforts to reach the board of trustees for clarification on whether they approved the retrenchments were also unsuccessful.

Meanwhile, education observers say the situation highlights governance and oversight challenges at some private institutions, urging greater transparency in employment and academic quality assurance.