Stuff reported yesterday a pupil assaulted a teacher this week and said the school’s rector Darryl Paterson confirmed an assault had taken place.
However, Mr Smith said the incident was accidental in nature and did not involve a high school pupil.
"The incident that took place at the school was an ‘accident’ and its reporting in Stuff as an assault, while technically correct, has blown the matter completely out of all proportion," Mr Smith wrote in an email.
"The incident did not involve a high school student.
"Waitaki Boys’ High School is a safe environment for both students and staff."
Mr Smith said he was aware the community would want more information, but because of privacy considerations "for the staff member and the student and his family, we are not at liberty to discuss the matter further".
It was reported the teacher had been taken to Oamaru Hospital after allegedly being head-butted and kicked in the stomach.
Mr Paterson did not respond to a request for comment from the Otago Daily Times.
Ministry of Education sector enablement and support deputy secretary Katrina Casey said Mr Smith notified the ministry of the incident.
"We are confident that the school has the appropriate systems in place to effectively manage this situation. The school knows we are here to provide any additional support if needed."
