Jan Kriel Institute - Kuils River

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Aka: Jan Krielskool

Aerial view. Source: Jan Kriel Instituut

Locality



Notes

Jan Kriel Skool (Jan Kriel School) in Kuils River is a special needs institution originally focused on children with epilepsy ("vallende siekte").

Rev. and Mrs. Kriel served as the pastoral couple of the Dutch Reformed (NG) Moedergemeente Kuilsriver from 1924 to 1937. Their beloved son Jan suffered from epilepsy, for which no effective treatment existed in South Africa at the time - Jan passed away in 1925.

Their pioneering work led them to apply to the local NG Church to purchase the old parsonage (pastorie) and convert it into a home for people with epilepsy. Initially, the plan was not for a school but a residential "tehuis" (home/care facility). However, to secure state support, it had to be registered as a special school. The Union Education Department granted recognition on 1 April 1937, and Lady Duncan (wife of the Governor-General) officially opened it on 4 May 1937.

Rapid growth prompted expansions: approved building plans enlarged structures, a stable was converted into a classroom, and by July 1939, 37 learners were taught by 3 teachers. Accommodation shortages led to negotiations in 1936 to buy Elim farm (its homestead and cow stables became boys' dormitories, with the parsonage for girls and offices). Improvements via the "Halfkroonfonds" (Half-Crown Fund) in 1941 and state subsidies created the "new school" used until 1950.

Elim

By 1940, the General Committee realized private operation was unsustainable. The NG Church partnered on education for epileptic children from late 1941. The first principal was appointed in 1942, with planning for new facilities, dormitories, and dining hall. In 1947, housing for 64 girls and 32 boys was completed; by 1950, 5 more classrooms and admin offices were added. A staff house opened in 1952, and further expansions (school buildings, hall, classrooms) finished in 1953. Sports facilities followed: athletics track in 1961, then tennis/netball courts and rugby field.

Early photo. (Unidentified photographer)

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