Sports – Developing Skill, Teamwork and Confidence

Sports – Developing Skill, Teamwork

Sports – Developing Skill, Teamwork and Confidence

Physical development is an essential part of life at Shanan. Our approach to Physical Training (PT) is carefully structured to develop coordination, fitness, and sports skills while teaching discipline, teamwork and perseverance.

Foundation Phase (Grade R – 3)

Sports are introduced in a fun, informal way, with the emphasis on participation, enjoyment and foundational skill development rather than competition. Activities focus on coordination exercises designed to develop:

• Muscular strength and tone

• Gross motor and hand-eye coordination

• Balance and concentration

Through our partnership with the Southern African Christian Schools’ Sport Association (SACSSA), learners are also given the opportunity to participate in inter-school events such as mini-soccer, mini-volleyball and mini-netball. These events provide a gentle and positive introduction to structured sport, fostering teamwork, confidence and a lifelong love for physical activity.

Athletics and cross country are introduced more competitively. Learners are able to progress from regional events through to national-level competition, where they have the opportunity to earn SACSSA Gauteng and National Colours.

Competitive Sports (from age 10)

From the age of 10, learners are introduced to a variety of sports, including:

• Swimming

• Athletics

• Table tennis

• Netball

• Soccer

• Cross country

• Volleyball

As their skills develop, the focus shifts towards more structured training, teamwork and healthy competition. Regular opportunities to participate in inter-school events, allows them to apply their skills in real match situations while building confidence and sportsmanship.

As a smaller school, Shanan offers a distinct advantage – greater opportunity for every learner to participate. Students are not limited to the sidelines; instead, they are encouraged to actively engage, grow and contribute as part of a team.

National Opportunities

Through our partnership with the Southern African Christian Schools’ Sport Association (SACSSA), learners have the opportunity to compete beyond the school level. Competitions begin at school and then progress through Zonal and Regional events, culminating in National competitions.

Learners who perform at a high level may qualify for SACSSA recognition. Athletes who achieve the required standards and place in the top positions at National events are awarded SACSSA National Colours, represented by the official SACSSA tracksuit. These opportunities not only reward excellence but also expose learners to high-level competition in a values-driven environment.

Chess – Strategy, Focus and Fun

Chess is a powerful tool for developing young minds:

• Chess develops critical thinking and problem-solving – Learners think ahead, analyse situations and understand that every move has consequences.

• Chess improves concentration and focus – The game requires sustained attention, helping learners focus for longer periods.

• Chess builds patience and discipline – Children learn to plan carefully, take their time and grow from mistakes.

• Chess develops confidence and resilience – Winning builds confidence, while losing teaches perseverance and emotional strength.

For these reasons, Chess is offered to all learners from Grade R–12, with opportunities to participate in school events as well as SACSSA-organized tournaments.

Eisteddfods & Olympiads – Exploring Talent

At Shanan, we value every learner’s God-given talents and provide opportunities for them to be discovered, developed and celebrated. Learners are encouraged to participate in Eisteddfods and Olympiads, showcasing their academic, creative and performance abilities. As a proud host of the Benoni Eisteddfod, we foster a culture of expression, confidence and growth within our community.

Opportunities include:

• The National Eisteddfod (Grade R–12): Learners participate in individual performance events such as poetry, monologues, speeches and singing. Group items support less confident learners. Adjudicators provide positive, constructive feedback and learners receive certificates andcompete for medals, trophies and the opportunity to perform at the final prizegiving.

• Computer Olympiads (Grade 4–12), learners knowledge of coding, logic and digital literacy skills are developed through Talent Search, Skills and Programming Olympiads, with top achievers progressing to national finals in Cape Town.

• Olympiad Academia (Grade 4 – 12): Written examinations, open to all learners, recognize achievement through performance-based certificates.

Through these opportunities, learners gain confidence, develop their abilities and are inspired to pursue excellence in academic and cultural areas of life.

All Africa Student Convention (AASC) – A Life-Changing Experience

The All Africa Student Convention (AASC) is an annual highlight for our Shanan High School learners. Learners from AEE-associated schools across Africa and Scandinavia gather to compete, learn and grow in a Godly environment while showcasing a wide range of talents.

Learners can participate in over 150 categories, including academics, Bible knowledge, creative and visual arts, photography, needle and thread, woodwork, music, platform presentations, drama, dance, athletics, and selected team sports. A key highlight is the Golden Awards, where learners memorize and recite entire books of the Bible, demonstrating discipline and spiritual growth. Top performers may be nominated to compete at the International Student Convention (ISC) in the United States.

AASC is more than a competition – it is a transformative experience where Shanan learners grow in confidence, faith, and talent. They mingle with like-minded learners from across South Africa and other, building new friendships. Evening rallies with worship and guest speakers further inspire and challenge learners in their faith, creating unforgettable memories.