Two Schools, One Vision

Although separate schools with their own campuses, Hillcrest and Rivercrest share leadership and a commitment to nurturing students academically, socially, and spiritually.

The key difference lies in their curriculum:

  • Hillcrest follows the Victorian Curriculum (including VCE and VM).
  • Rivercrest offers the full International Baccalaureate (IB) program from ELC to Year 12.

In 2024, a brand-new senior campus opened between the two schools, bringing Year 11 and 12 students from both together in a modern, collaborative learning environment.

 

Hillcrest Christian College

Set on 138 acres, Hillcrest blends a traditional school feel with forward-thinking opportunities. The school caters for a wide range of student interests with programs in STEM, performing arts, robotics, equestrian, and sport. Its robotics teams have even competed internationally.

Languages include Japanese and German, and the school offers a broad VCE and VM program with a median ATAR score of 30.

Despite growth in surrounding housing estates, Hillcrest maintains a strong community feel and connection to the local landscape. With a focus on diversity and inclusion, it welcomes families from all backgrounds.

 

Rivercrest Christian College

Purpose-built to deliver the IB curriculum, Rivercrest is one of only four schools in Victoria offering the full IB continuum. The architecture reflects its global and nature-connected philosophy, with native landscaping, open spaces, and a strong emphasis on enquiry-based learning.

Rivercrest is newer and slightly smaller than Hillcrest but continues to grow with new facilities to accommodate senior years. It offers French, Chinese, and ab initio Spanish, and will see its first Year 12 IB graduates in 2025.

Shared Features

  • 25-acre environmental reserve for outdoor learning and bush kinder
  • Co-curricular excellence in sport, music, and performing arts
  • Senior learning centre that mirrors a professional co-working environment
  • Wide catchment serviced by school buses
  • Support for learning diversity, from gifted programs to allied health support

 

Which one is right for you?

Both schools are co-ed, non-denominational Christian, and open entry, meaning students don’t need to follow a particular faith but should align with the school’s values. With the same fee structure and complementary offerings, the choice often comes down to family preferences around curriculum style and school vibe.

Whether you’re drawn to Hillcrest’s strong community roots or Rivercrest’s global, inquiry-based learning model, families at Northside can be confident their children have access to quality education close to home.