A group of members from the Reformed Church of Avondale met in 1984, wanting to provide a Christian based school to help them fulfill their responsibilities in bringing up their children. They determined that the school would be interdenominational, and founded an association to turn the dream into a reality.
Two ex hospital buildings were put on the back of the church site. On 26 May 1986 the school opened with 7 pupils, under the principal Sonia Wilson. During Mrs Wilson’s 10 year leadership the school grew to 100 pupils, with many classrooms being added.
As students progressed through the school it became evident that the school could be structured to cater for high school students. While Graham Pederson was principal the High School began and in 1998 a new library was opened.
David Jensen became principal in 2001. During his tenure there were major renovations to the office block, as well as the original buildings. In 2005 the first Year 13 students graduated.
In February 2009 the school prayerfully applied to the Ministry of Education to become an integrated school with a special ‘Christian Character’. The application was denied and so Immanuel is seeking God for a clear path ahead. We are confident that God will supply the provision we need if His vision we heed. Mrs. Dianne Walters resigned as Principal at the end of 2009 having overseen the turbulent process of applying for Integration. Dianne developed and maintained a loving, caring atmosphere throughout the school throughout this challenging time of change.