Our Story

Our Beginning

The Hills Montessori School began as a preschool in 1978, with the first students starting their education journey in a private home. Larger premises were soon needed, and the Old Police Station at Nairne was selected to satisfy the school’s growth. It was here in 1981, that tuition was extended to junior primary. A new campus was established at Aldgate in 1985, offering both preschool and primary tuition. Continued growth in enrolments created the need for a permanent school site. In 1987, a two hectare block of land on Anderson Road, Aldgate, was purchased from the Field Naturalists Society. Great care and thought went into designing and siting the buildings in sympathy with the bush environment.

Continuing Growth

On May 1st 1989, the school proudly opened the first three primary classrooms and the preschool at Anderson Road. Within 12 months building work had commenced on another preschool building, which opened in August 1990. The completion of our Science and Technology Centre (now known as the Common Room) and sports courts in 1994, complemented the school’s wide range of facilities. A purpose designed double classroom was constructed in 1998 to cater for increasing enrolments of students aged 9-12 years. A multipurpose Hall and Administration Centre was constructed and completed in December 2010.

The Middle School – ‘Wairoa Campus’ in Stirling was purchased in 2010 and refurbished ready to accommodate the Adolescent Program (12-15 year olds). In 2013 a new studio building was constructed to provide an additional learning space and a place for students to work on art and tech projects. In 2021 the Wairoa common room was extended and additional break out rooms, together with a dedicated staff space and reception area, were added to existing buildings to cater for growing enrolments.

School Foundation

In 2022, the Hills Montessori School Foundation was launched. It aims to provide resources, funding and support through the provision of new and improved educational and learning facilities. It also provides a way for past students, staff and parents to stay connected with our school through events and get togethers

Today’s Environment

Today the school offers a secure, happy and resource-filled environment on two campuses for education beginning in the 0-3 Infant Community through to Year 9 at the Middle School.