The Learning Program

We maintain small class sizes so that teachers can get to know the individual needs of each child.  By streaming classes for Maths, Spelling and Reading our advanced students are able to accelerate, while at the same time we can provide learning support where it is needed.  Our students demonstrate a high level of competence in basic skills, indicated by standardised test results and awards in academic competitions.  We have well-resourced classrooms, a library and a computer laboratory to provide ideal learning environments and allow your child to develop the expertise needed for today’s world.  

At Hills Adventist College we value creativity.  This is fostered and affirmed in our art and music programs.  Students can be part of the school band, as well as having the opportunity for individual music tuition.
 
An active lifestyle is an important part of our school program.  Our daily PE program fosters consistent fitness and our students benefit from the expertise of specialist instructors in gymnastics, athletics and swimming.  Our annual Swimming and Athletics Carnivals are great events for uniting school and family, and our ASISSA membership (All Suburbs Independent Schools Sporting Association) gives our students the challenge of inter-school competition. 

Learning for tomorrow
Whilst our approach to education is a holistic one, we place great emphasis on our students achieving to their highest potential academically.

All of our independent schools provide a well-rounded and challenging curriculum that is designed to provide your child with access to up-to-date resources and offer a wide variety of subjects.

The Seventh - day Adventist independent school system provides your child with a thorough grounding in key learning areas. It also offers a progressive and challenging curriculum that gives our students an excellent educational basis for their future years.

The Key Learning Areas are:

• Bible
• English 
• Grammar
• Reading
• Spelling
• Handwriting
• Writing 
• Mathematics
• Science and Technology
• Human Society and its Environment
• Creative and Practical Arts
• Personal Development, Health and Physical Education
• LOTE (French)

Pre-kindy providing your child with a head start
Our school gives families access to a pre-kindy program that has been developed to help your child experience an easy transition to school life. Because the programs are run on the school grounds your child will become familiar with the daily surroundings, people, philosophy and routines of school.

Hills Adventist College introduced an Early Learning centre in 2006.  The architect of the centre was recognised for his design of the 2-storey building. Stephen Menzies won the Hills Building & Design Award for 2006 in the Commercial / Industrial Development category, which is sponsored by the Baulkham Hills Shire Council and major corporations. The Early Learning Centre is recognized for its large external decks and terraces, shade sails, Sicilian roof, and curved elements. 

The Centre is licensed to care for up to 59 children per day. There is one preschool class that caters for three year olds and two prep classes for four to five year olds. Large sized rooms enable the children to engage in activities without interrupting each other. They have the space to play with their friends as well as by themselves if they choose.

Our pre-kindy teachers are fully qualified and teach young children through fun games, songs and craft activities. With flexible attendance, you can choose how often your child attends, making your start at Hills Adventist College smooth and worry free.

Catering to individual needs
At Hills Adventist College we understand that each student is unique and, wherever appropriate, we tailor the academic program to meet individual needs. Our high staff-to-student ratio allows teachers to develop and understanding of each child’s requirements, strengths and weaknesses. Our teachers are trained to recognise gifted and talented children as well as to detect children with learning difficulties.

At our school we cater to individual needs by ensuring students are streamed in reading, spelling and mathematics to ensure that each child is constantly challenged. Once they’ve learnt new concepts they may move to new classrooms for these subjects.

Gifted and talented students thrive in an environment where they have the opportunity to work at a higher academic level with the convenience of staying with their peers by staying attached to their age group/homeroom.

A specialist learning support teacher is also employed to help those who have difficulties with academic subjects. This help is given individually away from the class, or within their classroom environment, as is appropriate for needs.

More than just an education
Our aim is to give your child a full education program that will prepare them for life as well as work. With a lively extra-curricular enrichment program, including participation in band, choir, individual music tuition, drama, outdoor camps, leadership opportunities, a diverse sports programs and community service activities, your child will be able to develop and discover their own unique gifts and talents.

Christianity in the Sydney Adventist independent school system
As a Christian school founded by the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, Christianity forms the core of our teaching and approach to the school community as a whole.

While the schools function within the framework of an Adventist worldview, we are open to all students regardless of religious and cultural beliefs, without compulsory church attendance.

Prayer and development of a relationship with Jesus are an integral part of the school day. There are many opportunities for your child to develop this relationship further, either with the school chaplains or by arrangement with members of your own faith.