Staffing challenges and reduced student numbers have led Olivet Christian College to permanently close its doors.
By the end of 2024, the Christian college, which has a 46-year legacy in the Castlemaine and Campbells Creek communities, will finalise the closure.
The school families have been updated throughout the discussions on the future of the college and fully supported the final decision after all possible avenues to save the school were exhausted.
Principal Steven Nicholas expressed gratitude to all who had supported the college, acknowledging the dedication of staff and the resilience of the school community.
“While the closure is heart-wrenching, we are very pleased we have been able to support the transition of all students to their new schools for the start of 2025,” he said.
The school ended its journey on a high note, with the final presentation and awards night on December 5, celebrating the student achievements in 2024.
During the awards night everyone expressed their appreciation of the annual school musical and the Olivet Brass Band, which may be seen around the town as they help celebrate the 2024 Christmas season.
Founded in 1979 in a house on the banks of Laanecoorie, Olivet later moved to Newstead before moving to its current site in Campbells Creek in 1982.
The college has offered schooling from foundation through to year 10 and has a longstanding reputation for fostering education and community spirit.
The site’s future remains under discussion. In the meantime it will remain the meeting place of the Castlemaine Presbyterian Church.
