College Campuses

Research College Campus

The peaceful environment of our Research College Campus in the green wedge of northeast Melbourne is a place where young people can grow, explore and express themselves.  

This, our main college campus for Early Learning to Year 12, comprises 50 hectares of quality facilities created by College founder and architect Les Clarke AM. Clarke’s vision delivered the first major independent secular school in Australia, funded by a co-operative of parents and designed as a shared resource for its local community.  

Key facilities purpose-created and built to encourage student learning to flourish include:  

Environmental Reserve: facilitating the Early Learning Centre’s Bush Adventuring Program, and Junior School nature-based learning programs.  

Junior School Playspace: provides a range of play settings and exploration in nature, agility activities, social gathering spaces, and quiet spots to perch, dream and reflect.  

Observatory: this inspiring, research-grade facility supports ELTHAM College students to make new discoveries and be published in international, peer-reviewed journals. Astronomy is integrated into the Science curriculum from Grade 5 through to Year 10, and available in Year 11 and 12.  

Extensive sports facilities: basketball stadium and outdoor courts, hockey field, indoor heated swimming pool, multi-purpose hall, college campus sporting ovals and tennis courts.  

Harold Mitchell Performing Arts Centre: home of ELTHAM’s award-winning performing arts program, including the Clarke Auditorium, Recital Hall and Littlefield Centre.  

Swipers Gully Hospitality Training Centre, Restaurant and Winery: home of ELTHAM’s strong hospitality program which begins at Year 8, where our students learn and work in an operating restaurant and cafe. Swipers Gully is a boutique winery with an emphasis on producing small quantities of premium wine.  

LifeWork Centre: Situated at the heart of the Senior School, dedicated support starts at Year 9 with module ‘World of Work’, creating resumes, mock interviews and job applications. ELTHAM counsellors assist students to make subject choices, prepare for Year 11 and 12, apply for university and make career decisions.  

Visual Arts Centre: home of creative digital media, visual communication and design, media, art creative practice, and art making and exhibiting. Beyond teaching and learning spaces, the Visual Arts Centre is designed for college campus exhibitions and supports a student-led arts culture.