As we reflect on the remarkable journey of Edinburgh College, formerly known as Lilydale Adventist Academy, we celebrate not just our storied past but also the vibrant path forward, marked by significant transformations and spiritual enrichment.
Six decades ago, our institution embarked on a mission defined by faith and learning. Today, as we celebrate our 60th anniversary, we stand on the cusp of a bright, promising future guided by divine providence.
‘O taste and see that the Lord [our God] is good; how blessed [fortunate, prosperous, and favoured by God] is the one who takes refuge in Him’ (Psalms 34:8).
This verse has been the bedrock of our journey, especially over the past decade; a period of profound growth and achievement.
In 2016, a pivotal change unfolded; renaming our institution to Edinburgh College and strategically amalgamating the Early Learning Centre, Primary and Secondary Schools under one governance structure. This transformation has led to a doubling of enrolments across these stages, reflecting the community’s trust and our commitment to providing a holistic education.
Our campus has seen significant enhancements, with the construction of nine new classrooms and learning areas, including two rooms in the Early Learning Centre and seven in the Primary School. The Secondary School has not been left behind, with major refurbishments to the front office, food technology, and science facilities, signalling our dedication to academic excellence.
Moreover, the continuous improvement of our grounds signifies the love and care that the community pours into this much-cherished campus. The expansion of subject choices and out-of-classroom experiences further enrich our students’ educational journey, ensuring they receive a well-rounded and robust educational experience.
As we project into the future, enrolments are expected to soar to over 700 students from Prep to Year 12 by 2028. This growth is not merely in numbers but also in the depth of character, resilience, and faith instilled in our students.
The 60th Anniversary weekend commenced with a heartwarming alumni reunion. Laughter and memories echoed within the Language Centre walls that once housed the dreams and aspirations of boarding students when the building was used as the first on-site dormitory. Our After Hours worship team led the opening of the Sabbath with a song and devotional. The evening was a testament to the enduring spirit of community that defines Edinburgh College.
Pastor James Stanley said it was great to see the Alumni community worship together on the Sabbath.
“The spirit of Jesus was lifted high through praise and worship, and the stories of the Alumni guests highlighted the unique legacy of the school and its contribution to Christian service, both locally and abroad,” he said.
Saturday saw a congregation of over 400 united in faith and gratitude for the journey that brought us here. From musical medleys spanning the decades to heartfelt interviews with alums, each moment was a tribute to the rich tapestry of our history. This led to a band and choir session conducted by Mr Woody and his son Clinton.
The Alumni Gala Dinner shimmered with charisma and camaraderie as the legacy of Edinburgh College was honoured with speeches that resonated with pride and plans that pointed towards a promising future. Aaron Violi, MP, spoke about how Edinburgh gives choices in education to our community. Reynold Gilson shared his memories and dedicated his Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) to his grandfather, WJ Gilson, founder of LAA/Edinburgh College and Bruce Gilson. The current school captains, William Hopkins and Tiarey Croft, shared their positive experiences at Edinburgh College and thanked the alumni for their legacy, which remains a blessing.
On Sunday’s Open Day, more than a thousand visitors were welcomed, offering a glimpse into Edinburgh College’s vibrant learning environment. Fireworks illuminated the night sky as a fitting climax to a weekend imbued with gratitude and grace.
As Edinburgh College continues to thrive, we remain committed to transforming lives through God’s love and grace. We invite you to join us in this journey of faith, learning, and excellence. Here’s to many more years of blessing and growth at Edinburgh College, where faith and a commitment to excellence underpin every step forward.
