Inspire – 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.

High potential and gifted opportunities for your high potential or gifted child?

Academic Extension Groups

Science Extension Group
Led by Mr Dunstan, the Science Extension Group focused on ecosystems and the intricate ways living things are connected in food chains. Students explored the crucial roles that different organisms play, including primary consumers (animals that eat plants), predators (animals that hunt other animals), and decomposers (fungi that break down organic matter). Through hands-on activities and research, students examined how these roles support the balance in various environments. Inspired by their investigations, students completed individual projects exploring unique ecosystems from around the world, deepening their understanding of biodiversity and ecological relationships.

Wet and Wild Challenge – Geography Extension
At the end of the term, Stage 2 wrapped up their geography unit by participating in the ‘Wet and Wild Challenge’ – a state-wide competition that combines technology, geography, and science. Over four weeks, students worked in teams to solve weekly clues about different wetland animals, using online resources and digital tools to find answers. This collaborative activity not only fostered teamwork but also encouraged students to think critically and creatively. Throughout the challenge, students developed valuable skills in research and problem-solving, applying their knowledge to real-world environmental issues.

Overall, these extension groups have provided our students with meaningful opportunities to extend their learning, collaborate with peers, and apply their skills in exciting and relevant ways.

Stage 3 Writing Project

The Stage 3 and 4 Writing Project Initiative is an exciting program implemented in targeted schools to enhance students' writing skills across key learning areas. This initiative focuses on providing tailored support and innovative teaching strategies to engage students in developing their creativity, critical thinking, and communication abilities. Through collaborative workshops, targeted feedback, and the integration of digital tools, the project aims to empower students to become confident and effective writers, preparing them for academic success and lifelong learning.

Our Stage 3 teachers are in the early implementation stages of this project, with collaborative professional learning occurring with Stage 4 high school teachers to support a seamless transition to high school for our students in supporting their writing and ensuring that our students are leaving their primary years with a strong foundation in writing skills.

Inquiring Minds Camp

The Inquiring Minds camp was held at the Thalgarrah Environmental and Education Centre at the end of Term 1, and not only did we have four Sir Henry Parkes students (Sophie, Harry, Abigail and Samantha) participate, but we also had two of our dedicated staff members leading specialist sessions at the camp as mentors. This unique program offers high potential students in Years 5 and 6 from public schools in the New England area the opportunity to work closely with expert mentors in specialised fields, fostering their talents and interests.

Jon Dunstan led an extension science group with a focus on coding and robotics. His students delved into the fascinating concepts of speed and torque, applying these principles to design and build innovative vehicles capable of navigating a variety of terrains and challenges. Through hands-on learning and creative problem-solving, Mr Dunstan's group explored the intersection of technology and engineering, broadening their understanding and skills in STEM.

Meanwhile, Tracy Caldwell took charge of the extension history group. Mrs Caldwell engaged her students in exploring significant historical themes and events, encouraging critical thinking and inquiry to deepen their appreciation and knowledge of the past. Her mentorship provided an enriching experience the ignited curiosity and academic growth in young historians.

Inquiring Minds is a valuable program that supports the diverse needs of identified high potential and gifted students by providing specialised learning experiences outside the traditional classroom setting. We are delighted that Mrs Caldwell and Mr Dunstan had the opportunity to contribute their expertise and inspire the next generation of learners at this important camp. Congratulations to these staff for their commitment to nurturing excellence and passion among our students.

Kids Lit Quiz

We were excited to have four students recently participate in the Kids Lit Quiz in Armidale, showcasing their enthusiasm and knowledge of children's literature. Harry, Sophie, Lexi, and Abigail represented The Sir Henry Parkes Memorial Public School school with great teamwork and spirit, engaging confidently in the competition's challenging rounds. Their participation highlighted their commitment to reading and literary exploration, making the event a memorable experience for all involved.

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?

Inspire – 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.

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

Safe learning environments that encourage confidence, risk-taking, and perseverance.

Formative assessment to monitor growth and adapt learning.
Explicit teaching of critical thinking and problem-solving strategies.
Flexible grouping for collaborative ideation and presentation.
Differentiated movement tasks and skill refinement in PDHPE.
Targeted learning goals for coordination, agility, and control.
Supportive learning environments that enable exploration and self-assessment.
Strengths-based feedback and goal setting.
Opportunities for leadership within the classroom.
Differentiated tasks that adjust pace, complexity and higher-order thinking.

Across our school

Debating
Robotics club
School Band
Kid's Lit Challenge
Student leadership (SRC)
Bagpipe Tuition
Rugby Clinic
Participation in whole-school inclusion and wellbeing initiatives

Across NSW

The Premier’s Spelling Bee promotes our students’ vocabulary development and attention to detail in competitive settings.
The Premier’s Debating Challenge helps our students to build logical arguments and confidence in public speaking.
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.