The idea for a quality school in the Hunter Valley was conceived in 1987 in a chance meeting between building consultant, Warwick Lindsay and educationalist, Brian Charlton on a football field. Both men had a vision of an alternative, independent school in the Hunter Valley to provide a choice of schooling for parents and students who were attending schools in the region or who were boarding in Sydney or country private schools. 

 
 In 1988 a Steering Committee was established to investigate and assess the setting up of a Grammar School in the Lower Hunter Region was formed. The aims and philosophies of the school were established along with the school motto "Success through Endeavour". The motto reflected the spirit of that first group of men and women.
In 1989 a public meeting was held to gauge public support for the concept. This meeting attracted wide support and the plan to open a school was decided.

In July 1989 the Governor General of Australia, Bill Hayden, laid the foundation stone in the entrance gates. At that time no other structure existed on the land but through the enthusiastic response from the public, the school was on its way. And in 1990 Hunter Valley Grammar School first opened its doors.

In its short history the Hunter Valley Grammar School has come to be recognised as the premier school in the region.