A boy has been rushed to hospital with serious injuries after the balcony he was standing on collapsed at his prestigious high school.
The student had been standing on the year 7 and 8 deck at St Kevin’s College in Toorak, Melbourne, when it gave way at about 11.20am on Friday.
A school spokesperson said the boy was ‘responsive’ and in a stable condition, reportedly suffering fractures to his wrist, collarbone and leg.
‘An ambulance was called immediately and his parents contacted. Please know that although we do not have the full details of his condition, he is responsive,’ they said.
‘We are mindful that some staff and students witnessed the event and we will continue supporting them. We are aware that incidents such as these can impact people differently.
‘With this in mind, EAP counsellors will be on site this afternoon to support any staff who wish to access that service from 1.30pm to 3.30pm in the Chapel. As always, there will be EAP support after hours and over the weekend.
‘I wish to acknowledge the swift and professional action of all staff involved in a challenging situation.’
The boy was treated by paramedics before being taken to the Royal Children’s Hospital with upper and lower body injuries.
A school spokesperson said the boy is receiving ‘excellent care’ at the hospital.
‘[The] boy is reveicing excellent care from the medical team at the Royal Children’s Hospital,’ they said.
‘In speaking with Mum and Dad, he has sustained fractures that include the wrist, leg and collarbone.
‘He is responsive and in a stable condition.’
Teachers at the school were thanked for their ‘incredible work and support’ during the incident in an update sent out by leadership.
‘Thank you for you incredible work and support during a challenging day,’ the updte read.
‘I know we will continue to support each other.’
Photos from the scene show the balcony several metres high above the concrete ground below.
WorkSafe officers were seen at the college underneath the balcony inspecting the debris.
‘WorkSafe has been notified and inspectors and investigators are responding,’ a spokesperson confirmed.
More to come
