History
While standing on the banks of the Vals River, in the Free State, in 1952, Pastor Billy Smook said to the principal of the Berea Bible Seminary, where Billy was a student; “Dr Grobbelaar, I just received a word from the Lord while looking at that convent across the river that one day we shall have our own Christian School”.
Years later, on the 8th November 1988, this word was confirmed by a prophecy given through the late Pastor Ed Traute. He prophesied, that if all those involved with the school would remain obedient to the leading of the Spirit, the school would be protected and would be a place of joy, laughter, warm sunshine and light. He further prophesied that the school would “shine forth and be a place where children would learn to be confident and where children would want to learn”. Following this prophecy, Ps Smook boldly announced from the pulpit, “Next year, we are opening a Christian School”. And that is exactly what happened!
On the left: Ps Billy Smook | On the right: Dr Derick Grobbelaar – The Principal of Berea Bible School in Kroonstad 1951 – 1953
First principal Vincent Willems (bottom left) and original staff and school board members – 1989
The vision was caught by a school teacher, Mr Vincent Willems and other members of the Full Gospel Church congregation. A committee was formed and plans were set in motion. This led to the opening of Shanan Christian School on the 13th January 1989, in the manse of Pastor and Mrs Smook, after a new manse was built on the same property. Mr Willems was appointed as the first principal of the school.
In 1992, Mrs Van Heerden took over the position as principal. Shanan grew and prospered under her leadership and during the 2009 ACE Administrators’ Convention, Shanan was awarded a Crystal Trophy for operating successfully for 20 years. Ten years later, in 2019, Shanan was again honoured at the annual AEE Administrators’ Seminar for 30 years of service.
Mrs van Heerden (Bottom right) with office staff 1998
