Eudunda’s 121-year-old St John’s Lutheran School has hit the market following its shock closure.
A much-loved school in the state’s mid north has hit the market, just months after its abrupt closure.
The 121-year-old St John’s Lutheran School, at Eudunda, closed in December, after enrolments plummeted to just 46 students.
The 1.85ha school site, which includes three residences that are currently rented and a recently revamped playground, has now been listed for sale.
Selling agent James Juers, of McGees Property, said the site – which spans six titles that can be purchased separately or as a whole – would likely sell for close to $2 million.
“It (the property’s value) is a bit unknown – it’s probably better (worth more) than a million (dollars). I’ve speculated it could go closer to two ($2m),’’ he said.
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The 1.85ha school site at 8 Ward St is being sold via an expressions of interest campaign that closes on April 23.
The property includes six titles.
It is expected to be sold to a local SA buyer.
“I’ve had inquires from the retirement sector and some who are looking at the houses – (either) one of the houses or multiple.
“Probably, it will go to a South Australian (buyer) but certainly we are marketing this interstate and I do expect a number of interstate inquiries.’’
The school’s closure, which was announced in September, shocked the local community.
Just one month prior, St John’s was investigating whether to offer out of school hours care and it welcomed several new students during its mid-year enrolment intake in July.
The school also launched a bespoke junior primary program and an upgraded playground early in 2025.
Some questioned the school’s closure given the town’s expansion plans, with development of a new residential estate, comprising 55 housing blocks and 21 retirement homes, already underway.
There were also suggestions St John’s could be used as further space for nearby Eudunda Area School but Mr Juers did not believe he would get any inquiries from those looking to continue the property’s existing use.
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The school’s closure was announced in September.
It launched a bespoke junior primary program and an upgraded playground early last year.
Enrolments declined sharply in recent years, with just 46 students left last year.
“If a Lutheran school can’t make a school work, no one can – they (the Lutheran Church) are known for doing schools well,’’ he said.
Lutheran Education SA, NT and WA executive director Craig Fielke said the decision to close St John’s had been difficult but was forced by declining enrolments, from 140 in 2009 to 46 last year.
It is understood at least 20 more students were needed to keep the school open.
“Like many rural and regional communities, Eudunda has and continues to experience a steady decrease in school-aged children,’’ Mr Fielke said.
“Despite the unwavering commitment of staff, families and the broader Lutheran education community, the school was no longer viable.’’