Specimen Hill Primary School in Bendigo, Victoria, has a rich history connected to the area’s gold mining heritage. Originally, a Wesleyan school was established in 1857 at the corner of Chum Street and Specimen Hill Road, close to the thriving gold mines of the time. The name “Specimen Hill” is thought to reference the gold specimens found in the area.

Most of the school's parents back then were miners, largely employed on the fabulously rich New Chum Line of Reef. Life in the 1850's would have been at times very exciting, but also very perilous - and certainly a lot of hard work!

The school transitioned to government operation in 1873 when the Victorian Education Department established School No. 592 on Inglewood Street. It officially opened on January 26, 1874, and later became known as School No. 1316.

Positioned away from the gold cyaniding works of the 19th century, it provided a safe and central location for education as the community grew. Over the years, the school has served many families, including those of miners working on the nearby New Chum Line of Reef.

This school celebrated its centenary in 1974, reflecting its deep ties to the Bendigo region’s development and its enduring role in the community. The old school was refurbished in 1998. Last year, the school commemorated it’s 150th anniversary with a school fair and guest speakers.