HILLS started as a small and humble Primary School in the 1970s through families wanting a school experiencing God’s love and blessing. It grew into an ELC – Year 12 School within 30 years and in 2020 another exciting chapter begins for the community – the relocation of the Secondary Campus from our shared facilities at Oakbank will see a one-campus ELC – Year 12 school at Verdun for the first time. This will provide a wonderful celebration and recognition for our forefathers who had the courage and vision to grow Christian education in the Adelaide Hills.

Catering for children from the Early Learning Centre through to Year 12 offers a broad, yet balanced educational programme including German, Physical Education, Performing Arts and ICT as specialist lessons, with Christian Education sensitively incorporated into all aspects of School life. The Secondary School offers a broad range of SACE subject offerings, elective subjects, as well as a variety of VET courses. The curriculum caters for the needs of children of all abilities and from a diversity of backgrounds with educators focusing on the pedagogical principles of collaboration, agency, critical thinking, creativity and responsiveness.

HILLS provides a wide range of extra-curricula activities and clubs including debating, buddy program, LAP (Learning Assistance Programme), chess, choir, band, orchestra, poetry recital, gardening, Young Environment Leaders, art and drama. We provide many opportunities to excel in basketball, volleyball, netball, athletics and swimming as particular focus sports. HILLS is a ‘Moderate Fee’ independent school, commenced and governed by parents of its students. It has no affiliation to any particular church or denomination but enjoys support from the Christian churches in the Adelaide Hills. With the Campus located centrally at Verdun, the School is well served by public transport and provides Out of School Hours and Vacation Care for those who require it.

As a non-denominational Christian School, it is our endeavour to provide students with opportunities to examine their learning through a Christian world-view informed by Scripture and firmly planted in Christ. This provides unique and holistic learning opportunities where each child is nurtured to thrive in a wonderful natural environment to develop academically, emotionally, physically and spiritually. It is a truly distinctive and caring school community, which respects diversity and values ‘Koinonia’ throughout the school. The essential meaning of ‘Koinonia’ embraces concepts of community, communion, joint participation and sharing.