High potential and gifted education (HPGE)

At Picton High School we are committed to supporting every student achieve their educational potential by providing talent development opportunities and differentiated learning experiences that are aimed at raising expectations and building student capabilities. The school’s vision is based on the premise that excellence comes when students and staff commit to becoming the best they can be and providing opportunities for students to meet their potential in a meaningful way.

Our High Potential and Gifted Education programs and extra-curricular opportunities have been developed to promote engagement and challenge for every student. We believe high potential students from all backgrounds should have access to quality learning opportunities that meet their needs and aspirations, and we use evidence-based talent development to optimise growth and achievement across all domains of potential – intellectual, physical, creative and social/emotional.

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.

Our high potential and gifted education opportunities

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

Identification of Students

Recognising students with high potential or giftedness in academic, creative, social, or leadership domains.
Using a range of evidence including teacher observation, assessment results, and external testing.

Differentiated Learning

Providing appropriately challenging learning experiences that extend students’ thinking and skills.
Adjusting curriculum, pace, depth, and complexity to match students’ abilities.

Enrichment and Extension

Offering enrichment programs, activities, and projects that broaden knowledge and develop higher-order thinking.
Encouraging problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking beyond the standard curriculum.

Acceleration Where Appropriate

Allowing students to progress through curriculum at a faster rate in areas of strength if suitable.
Providing flexible learning pathways to match students’ abilities and learning needs.

Recognising that gifted students may have unique social and emotional needs.
Supporting wellbeing, resilience, and positive peer relationships alongside academic growth.

Teacher Expertise and Professional Learning

Ensuring teachers are trained to identify and support high potential and gifted learners.
Using evidence-based strategies to differentiate and challenge students effectively.

Collaboration with Families

Engaging parents and carers in planning and supporting their child’s learning.
Providing information and resources to help families understand HPGE needs and opportunities.

Equity and Access

Ensuring all students with high potential have access to appropriate programs, including students from diverse backgrounds and those with additional learning needs.

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