Double celebration for Blue Hills

BLUE Hills College will mark 60 years of excellence in education on the Northern Rivers with a range of celebrations this weekend.

Through the years, there have been many changes and advancements, culminating in the opening of a new multi-purpose centre.

The college opened as Lismore Seventh-day Adventist School at the beginning of the 1950 school year with Mrs Diedre Holmes, the college's sole-charge first teacher working in a multi-level classroom.

The small school began life in a hall that had been purchased from Alstonville, demolished, and re-erected behind the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Brewster Street, Lismore.

In 1960, the school was moved to Uralba Street and a second room was added in 1972. The school was re-named Seventh-day Adventist Union School in the 1970s, when the churches at Ballina, Casino and Kyogle joined with Lismore in administering the school.

A high school was added in 1978 and in March that year, the school moved to its present site at Blue Hills Avenue, Goonellabah.

Each year an additional year level was added until School Certificate credential was achieved.

The school was renamed Blue Hills Adventist School in 1987and Blue Hills College in 1997.

Today will see another milestone in the school's rich history – the opening of the multipurpose centre. The $1.9 million multi-purpose centre is a BER (Building the Education Revolution) project.

It features a staff common room, three large general learning areas, a commercial kitchen/canteen, uniform shop, full size netball and basketball court, championship volleyball court and also four badminton and two volleyball practice courts. It has a “pulastic” floor which is child-proof and easy on young knees.

The centre will also be used for presentation evenings, carols programs, school concerts and sporting events.

Its unique design features sustainable elements such as efficient water use, direct flow ventilation and lighting; and it will be available for hire.

While much has changed over the years, one thing remained the same ... dedication to students. Blue Hills' mission statement is simple ...“Blue Hills College seeks to nurture each student in a safe Christian environment, educating them for a life of faith and service to God and humanity”.

Blue Hills staff members are a team of united, innovative professionals who are committed to their roles as mentors and educators.

Student education is enriched by inspired and motivated Christian teachers, who work tirelessly to create a safe and supportive environment where students are able to realise their potential and develop skills that will empower them to make informed and wise choices.

This weekend's celebrations commence tomorrow with an evening program. On Saturday, a special Anniversary Worship Service will be held at 10am, followed by a community lunch.

Later in the evening on Saturday, there will be a dinner and variety concert.

For more information call Blue Hills College on 6625 6000.