Encounter Lutheran College

Encounter Lutheran College is a Christian school that centres its community on the message of compassion, respect, and love. It promotes a holistic approach to education, valuing sustainability, outdoor learning, and the wellbeing of every student. The school fosters a culture of belonging where education is viewed as a partnership between the school and the home.

The school offers a continuous learning journey starting with the Lighthouse Early Learning program for children aged 3 to 5. The academic structure includes a Junior School (Foundation to Year 6), a Middle School (Years 7–9), and a Senior School (Years 10–12). As an International Baccalaureate World School, it delivers the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and Middle Years Programme (MYP) curricula, emphasizing inquiry-based, rigorous, and future-focused learning.

The school aims to develop active, resilient young people who possess strong foundations for life and are prepared for the future. Graduates are encouraged to be open-minded, dynamic, and compassionate learners who are equipped with the skills and confidence to thrive in an ever-changing world. Student leadership opportunities are provided to foster service, integrity, and purpose within the community.

The school employs a committed staff team that engages in ongoing professional learning to meet the academic, emotional, spiritual, and social needs of each child. Educators work collaboratively to provide a supportive environment where students are known and valued, with a focus on nurturing individual potential and wellbeing.

Enrolments are open from Early Learning through to Year 12, with major intake years occurring at Early Learning, Foundation (Reception), and Year 7. Prospective families are encouraged to submit an online application, which includes a $50 non-refundable fee, and to visit the campus for a College Tour. The school welcomes enquiries from all families, regardless of faith background.

The College operates on a term-based schedule, with office hours during term time from Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:00 pm. Key dates, including public holidays and term dates, are available via a public calendar, while parents have access to a more detailed schedule through the TASS Parent Calendar and the Encounter App. During school holidays, office hours are adjusted to 9:00 am to 3:00 pm during the second week, with the office closed during the first week.

Situated on 82 acres (33 hectares) in a rural setting near Victor Harbor, the campus features extensive natural environments, including a 69-acre bushland sanctuary known as Wurar Ruwi and a prayer labyrinth. Key buildings include the Kondole Centre, a gymnasium, the Nest, a library, and a Middle School Learning Centre. The grounds also host the GPS Café and Encounter Café, supporting a focus on sustainability and outdoor learning.

The school provides a comprehensive camp and outdoor education program that spans from Foundation to Year 12 to build resilience and confidence. Students participate in house-based activities, with four houses—Coorong (Kurrangk), Granite (Kaiki), Rosetta (Plonggi), and Yilki—fostering camaraderie and leadership through various roles. Additionally, the school offers specialist programs in performing arts, environmental stewardship, and athlete development.