High potential and gifted education

Some students learn faster and more easily than others. These students may shine in creativity, thinking, leadership or sport.

At our school, we recognise and nurture these strengths early. We support advanced learners with great lessons and activities to help them grow and thrive.

Why choose us for your high potential or gifted child?

Recognising potential and developing talent

Our teachers find potential and nurture our students to be the best they can be.

Tailored lessons

Each student has different abilities. Teachers respond to each student’s ability by providing extra challenges and extension activities to keep learning exciting and engaging.

Rich opportunities and activities

Students can take part in opportunities to develop their talent in the arts, sport, leadership and more.

Opening doors to wider experiences

Our students can participate in a wide range of state-wide opportunities that aim to extend and enrich student potential.

What is high potential and gifted education?

High potential and gifted education (HPGE) is how our school supports students with advanced learning needs.

We do this through:

effective teaching strategies like enrichment, extension and acceleration

tailored support during lessons that stretch, challenge and inspire

access to a wide range of opportunities both within and beyond our school.

The Assessment - Instruction Waterfall Chart (AWC)

The following Conceptual Framework (Figure 1.2) displays ‘Formative Assessment that Informs Explicit Teaching’ and is the evidence-proven research of Sharratt, 2015-2024.

Our high potential and gifted education opportunities

Our students engage with HPGE education in the classroom, in our school, and across NSW.

In our classroom

At Wallerawang PS HPGE is in our daily practice. We support every student moving from high potential to high performance.

High expectations across all classrooms K-6.
Supportive learning environments that promote connection and success.
Quality teaching curriculum, based on evidence leading to mastery through differentiation.
Students are consistently challenged to improve through knowing what they are learning and why.
The Assessment Waterfall Model provides a structured approach to independence using de-constructed learning intentions, co-constructed success criteria, descriptive feedback, peer and self-assessment and individual goal setting.
Explicit teaching of skills and knowledge moves students from high, potential to high performance through deliberate practice.
Critical and creative thinking opportunities so students engage deeply across all the domains.
Cluster grouping at FACES providing a collaborative approach to developing strategies for students who require challenge and extension.

Across our school

At Wallerawang we offer a range of opportunities for students that supports individual interests/areas of potential and success.

Debating developing students’ essential skills such as critical thinking, public speaking, research, teamwork and active listening.
Public speaking K-6 annual school event providing public speaking skills and confidence.
STEM and podcast group – multiple opportunities including lunchtime interest groups.
Student leadership opportunities and student voice (school and community).
Academic competitions throughout the year, including Newcastle Permanent Mathematics competition to test numeracy problem solving skills.
Art club as part of lunchtime interest groups to nurture creativity.
Resident Potter providing students with innovative ways to express themselves originally.
Programs and opportunities to develop students’ physical skills and help them achieve their athletic potential.
Cultural experiences through language and first nations dance.
Varied dance opportunities provided by a qualified dance teacher, giving students opportunities to participate in PULSE Alive, School Spectacular, Eisteddfod and Western Dance.
Singing experiences including group and solo opportunities provided by an experienced singing teacher who has performed with the Australian Girls Choir, received a high distinction in AMEB and a Band 6 in music for the HSC. She also performed with Hugh Jackman and Guy Sebastian.
Skipping program, led by an experienced skipping instructor. This engaging activity promotes fitness, coordination, and teamwork while providing a fun and energetic way for students to stay active.

Across NSW

The Premier’s Debating Challenge helps our students to build logical arguments and confidence in public speaking.
The Premier’s Spelling Bee promotes our students’ vocabulary development and attention to detail in competitive settings.
The School’s Spectacular is an iconic performing arts event that celebrates the talents, diversity and creativity of students from across NSW public schools.
Pulse Alive is a vibrant celebration of creativity, connection, and opportunity in the performing arts, showcasing thousands of singers, dancers, actors, and musicians from NSW public schools.
The Premier’s Sporting Challenge (PSC) promotes whole-school participation in physical activity with leadership pathways and professional learning.
The Representative School Sport Pathway and PSSA and CHSSA events enable our students to trial and compete in sports at regional, state and national levels, fostering discipline, commitment and collaboration.
Participation in regional dance ensembles develops performance presence and physical expressiveness.

The creative domain at Wallerawang is supported by School Spectacular through opportunities that allow students to showcase their artistic talents on a prominent stage, providing them with invaluable experience and recognition. Participation in School Spectacular helps HPGE students develop advanced skills in dance, fostering creativity. The event also encourages collaboration and networking with peers from other schools, broadening students’ horizons and nurturing a sense of community. Additionally, being part of such a prestigious platform motivates students to strive for excellence and boosts their confidence.

Students in public schools benefit from a wide range of sporting opportunities that support their development through progressive pathways. These programs are designed to cater to all skill levels, from beginners to elite athletes, providing structured pathways that encourage participation, skill development, and competition. Through school-based sports, inter-school carnivals, regional trials, and state-level representation, students can progressively advance their sporting abilities while promoting teamwork, leadership, and healthy lifestyles. This comprehensive approach ensures that every student has the chance to engage in physical activity, discover their sporting potential, and pursue opportunities beyond school, fostering lifelong involvement in sport and physical wellbeing. At Wallerawang we encourage students in both individual and team sports acknowledging their potential and progressing their talent.

The connection between culture and High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) through language and dance is significant in fostering students' holistic development and cultural identity. Language serves as a vital tool for expressing cultural heritage, storytelling, and communication, allowing gifted students to explore and deepen their understanding of their own and others’ cultures. Dance similarly provides a powerful medium for cultural expression, creativity, and emotional connection, enabling students to embody traditions and share cultural narratives in dynamic ways. Integrating language and dance within HPGE programs not only nurtures students’ cognitive and artistic talents but also promotes cultural awareness, inclusivity, and respect for diversity. This connection enriches students’ learning experiences by bridging academic excellence with cultural enrichment, supporting the development of well-rounded individuals who appreciate and contribute to their communities.

At Wallerawang Public School, our Kindergarten to Year 6 public speaking program aligns closely with the NSW Department of Education’s High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) Policy. We are committed to identifying and nurturing students’ unique strengths, including those with advanced verbal and communication skills. Through regular public speaking activities, students are encouraged to develop confidence, critical thinking, and effective communication—key capabilities that support high potential and gifted learners. Our program offers differentiated learning opportunities that challenge and engage all students, ensuring every child can reach their full potential in a supportive and inclusive environment. This approach reflects our dedication to fostering excellence and meeting the diverse learning needs of our students.

At Wallerawang Public School, our STEM and podcast programs are designed to align with the NSW Department of Education’s High Potential and Gifted Education Policy by providing enriched and challenging learning opportunities for all students. These programs encourage creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills—key areas where high potential and gifted students often excel. Through hands-on STEM activities and the collaborative nature of producing podcasts, students are able to explore complex concepts, engage deeply with content, and develop advanced communication and technical skills. This approach supports differentiation and personalised learning, ensuring that students with high abilities are stimulated and supported to reach their full potential. Our commitment to these innovative programs reflects our ongoing dedication to meeting the needs of high potential and gifted learners in a dynamic and inclusive learning environment.

At Wallerawang Public School, leadership opportunities play a vital role in aligning with the NSW Department of Education’s High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) Policy. By providing students with roles that develop skills such as responsibility, decision-making, and teamwork, we support the growth of high potential and gifted learners beyond academic achievement. These opportunities enable students to build confidence, enhance their communication abilities, and demonstrate initiative—key capabilities that are essential for future success. Our leadership programs are designed to challenge and engage students, fostering their personal and social development in a supportive environment.

At Wallerawang Public School, staying active is an important part of supporting the goals of the NSW Department of Education’s High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) Policy. Physical activity contributes to the holistic development of high potential and gifted students by enhancing their physical health, concentration, and overall well-being. Engaging in regular exercise and active play encourages resilience, teamwork, and goal-setting skills, which complement their academic and creative talents. By promoting an active lifestyle through diverse sports and movement opportunities, we provide a balanced and enriching learning environment that nurtures the unique strengths and needs of our high potential and gifted learners, helping them to thrive both in and out of the classroom.

A supportive learning environment is fundamental to the successful implementation of the High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) Policy at Wallerawang Public School. Such an environment fosters a culture of respect, inclusion, and encouragement, where high potential and gifted students feel safe to take intellectual risks, explore their interests, and pursue challenges. By providing emotional support and personalised learning opportunities, teachers can effectively differentiate instruction to meet the diverse needs of these students. This approach helps nurture their cognitive, social, and emotional development, enabling them to achieve their full potential academically and personally.

Entering the Newcastle Permanent mathematics tests at Wallerawang Public School supports the High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) policy by providing our high potential and gifted students with valuable opportunities to demonstrate and further develop their mathematical abilities. Participation in these tests helps identify students’ strengths and learning needs, allowing teachers to tailor targeted learning experiences that promote intellectual growth. This aligns with the HPGE policy’s commitment to offering equitable and challenging educational programs that nurture talent and foster excellence. By engaging in these assessments, Wallerawang PS ensures consistent monitoring of student progress and supports the implementation of practices that help all high potential and gifted students achieve their full potential in mathematics.

Debating at Wallerawang Public School supports the High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) policy by providing students with opportunities to develop critical thinking, advanced communication skills, and intellectual engagement beyond the standard curriculum. Through debating, high potential and gifted students are challenged to research, analyse different perspectives, and articulate their ideas clearly and confidently. This aligns with the HPGE policy’s focus on offering differentiated learning experiences that nurture students’ talents and foster their cognitive and social-emotional growth. Incorporating debating into the school program ensures that gifted learners at Wallerawang PS receive suitable enrichment opportunities that promote higher-order thinking, creativity, and self-expression, contributing to their overall development and excellence. Pictured is Ruby and Sadie who were nominated to participate in the Western Region debating trials.

Pottery at Wallerawang Public School supports the High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) policy by providing an enriching, creative outlet that nurtures the artistic and kinaesthetic talents of high potential and gifted students. Engaging in pottery encourages students to develop fine motor skills, spatial awareness, creativity, and problem-solving abilities, which are essential aspects of intellectual and personal growth. This hands-on learning experience aligns with the HPGE policy’s commitment to offering diverse and differentiated opportunities that cater to students’ unique strengths and interests. By incorporating pottery into the curriculum, Wallerawang PS ensures that gifted learners have access to meaningful enrichment activities that promote innovation, self-expression, and a deeper engagement with the learning process. Mrs Wellfare our Resident Potter is explaining the finer skills to stage 2 student Layla.

The Premier’s Spelling Bee at Wallerawang Public School supports the High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) policy by providing an engaging and challenging opportunity for high potential and gifted students to develop and showcase their advanced literacy skills. Participation in this competition encourages students to expand their vocabulary, improve spelling accuracy, and enhance their confidence in language use. This aligns with the HPGE policy’s emphasis on offering differentiated and stimulating learning experiences that nurture students’ talents and promote intellectual growth. By taking part in the Premier’s Spelling Bee, Wallerawang PS ensures that gifted learners receive targeted enrichment that fosters excellence in literacy and supports their ongoing academic development. Pictured here is Wilson stage 3 representative who progressed to the 4^th round.

Involvement in leadership and community events at Wallerawang Public School supports the High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) policy by providing high potential and gifted students with opportunities to develop essential social, emotional, and leadership skills. Participating in these events encourages students to take initiative, collaborate with others, and engage meaningfully with the wider community, which fosters personal growth and resilience. This aligns with the HPGE policy’s focus on nurturing the whole child through differentiated learning experiences that go beyond academic achievement. By promoting student leadership and community involvement, Wallerawang PS creates a supportive environment where gifted learners can build confidence, demonstrate responsibility, and cultivate talents that contribute to their well-rounded development and future success. Th school is pictured at the local ANZAC service.

Help for your high potential child

If your child shows signs of high potential, contact us. We can share how our HPGE support can guide their learning journey.

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