Inception
'In February 1940 Edge Hill State School opened with thirty-one pupils, a single teacher and one classroom. It was built to meet demand in one of the earliest townships established outside the Cairns Central Business District. The area now known as Edge Hill was used for primary industry and Chinese market gardening and as the population grew so too did the need for a school to meet the learning needs of local families.
The original school building still stands proudly despite record wet season deluges, cyclones of all sizes and the threat of war during the Pacific conflicts of WWII. Additional buildings have been added over time, as well as play spaces and amenities. Since its' establishment the school has enjoyed progressive growth and expansion. It is now one of the largest public primary schools in Cairns.
Community and facilities
Generations of local families have been, and continue to be, educated at our school. We are proud of the achievements of former students. Our alumni include household names from sports, arts and media and political arenas. Over the years innovative school leaders have continued a tradition of modernisation and school enhancement ensuring the best possible outcomes for our student population while respecting the schools heritage.
Students today are still benefiting from the efforts of leaders and P&C Association members in the 1970's who saw to the building of a swimming pool. We are still the only public school in the region with our own swimming facilities. Since the turn of this century, school additions have included a state-of-the-art Performing Arts Centre and Basketball Stadium. Our most recent build, the Innovation Centre, has been designed specifically for digital learning.
Milestones
The most recent milestone celebrated at Edge Hill State School was our 75th Anniversary. Former staff and students participated in virtual and onsite celebrations from all over the country and world. We are a close-knit school community despite our size. We value the contribution of former and current leaders, parents, teachers, politicians and departmental officers who have helped build our great school.
Our history and traditions are defining. After more than three quarters of a century Edge Hill State School continues to provide a learning environment that meets the ever changing needs of modern students across socio-economic and cultural backgrounds.
Ours is a dynamic, modern, multi-cultural school with proud traditions and the respect of our community.