Toronto

St. Michael's College School cancels basketball, football seasons amid sex assault scandal

A prestigious Toronto private school rocked by allegations of assault and sexual assault by students has cancelled several sports programs.

All-boys Catholic school calls decision 'difficult but necessary' in note to parents

Toronto police have arrested a seventh St. Michael's College School student after launching an investigation into alleged assaults and sexual assaults that took place at the private school. (Paul Smith/CBC)

A prestigious Toronto private school rocked by allegations of assault and sexual assault by students has cancelled several sports programs.

In a note to parents Wednesday afternoon, St. Michael's College School says that in light of the recent scandal, it made "the difficult but necessary decision" to cancel the basketball program this year and two football programs next year.

Last month, six students were charged with sex assault in connection with an attack that allegedly involved several members of a sports team and was captured on video.

Police say they are investigating a total of six cases involving students at the school, including one that police sources say involved members of a different team.

The all-boys Catholic school says students involved in competitive sports will participate in workshops about bullying, harassment and abuse.

St. Michael's says students, faculty and staff have been participating in workshops throughout December that focus on the healing and well-being of all students.