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A new journey has begun for St Michael's Lutheran Primary School with the official opening of a wonderful new Early Learning Centre that is set to benefit the littlest learners of Hahndorf, SA, and the wider Adelaide Hills community.
St Michael's Principal Terri Taylor and School Board Chair Scott Fairley proudly welcomed guests following a morning service at nearby St Michael's Lutheran Church on Sunday, 1 March.
Photos: (From left to right) St Michael's Business Manager Tracy Downing, Principal Terri Taylor and School Board Chair Scott Fairley (top). The interior of one of the beautifully finished rooms (above). The moment of truth - Scott (below) says a few heartfelt words then cuts the ribbon!
A new beginning
"This is a significant milestone for St Michael's," Principal Terri said.
"The opening of our Early Learning Centre represents more than a new building; it represents a new beginning.
"It's a beginning of journeys for our youngest learners, a place where small hands will explore, curious minds will ask questions, and where children will begin to discover who they are as God's children within a nurturing and faith-filled environment.
"This centre strengthens the pathways for learning at St Michael's, from early learning through to primary school, and reflects our deep commitment to belonging and growing in wonder."
The new ELC is set to welcome up to 33 new students for the start of Term 2, 2026.
It will provide a one-stop service for families with the added convenience of long day care and out-of-hours care helping parents balance work and family commitments while ensuring their children experience high-quality, values-based education in a nurturing environment.
Faith foundation
"The faith foundation of the ELC was, and is, our No.1 priority when we first started planning several years ago," Scott said.
"We wanted a Christ-centred Centre where the message of God's love is shared with the youngest learners in our community. We wanted an ELC that inspires our students so that they have a positive experience in their early learning years."
A proud partnership
The transformative project encountered some unexpected issues along the way, with St Michael's Business Manager Tracy Downing grateful for the strong partnership with LLL as the team worked through the challenges.
"We owe a debt of gratitude to LLL," Tracy said.
"Their financial assistance and genuine enthusiasm for this project has been instrumental. We're proud to partner with an organisation so dedicated to the mission and support of Lutheran communities."
Visit: St Michael's Lutheran School | Hahndorf, South Australia
