High potential and gifted education

In our classroom

At Plattsburg Public School, HPGE lives in everyday practice. We challenge our students to think, create, lead and grow every day.

• Teachers identify students' learning needs in the classroom and use evidence-informed teaching practices to challenge and extend students. We provide learning pathways, including enrichment and extension programs and acceleration.
• Our supportive classroom environments promote a sense of belonging and encourage risk-taking, creativity and collaboration.
• We provide tasks that promote choice, authenticity, and critical and creative thinking.
• Our teachers engage in professional learning to support the diverse needs of all students, including our high potential and gifted learners

Across our school

• STEM Groups engage students in hands-on projects and problem-solving challenges in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, supporting critical thinking, innovation and inquiry.

• Mathematics Competitions - Students with strong numeracy skills are encouraged to take part in mathematics competitions that extend their reasoning, accuracy and perseverance beyond the classroom curriculum.

• Spelling Bee - Our school Spelling Bee provides enrichment for students with strong literacy skills, building vocabulary, memory strategies and the confidence to compete in a supportive environment.

• PSSA Involvement - Through PSSA sport, students with high physical ability can represent the school, developing teamwork, skill mastery and sportsmanship in a competitive setting.

• Student Representative Council (SRC) - The SRC offers a leadership pathway for students who demonstrate initiative and responsibility. Members contribute to school decisions, events and wellbeing initiatives.

• Public Speaking - Public Speaking opportunities allow students to develop clarity, persuasion and confidence in presenting their ideas to an audience, enriching communication and leadership skills.

• Drum and Guitar Workshops - These workshops provide hands-on musical tuition for students interested in developing instrumental skills, rhythm, creativity and performance confidence.

• Plattsy’s Got Talent - This annual showcase celebrates diverse talents across the school, giving students a platform to express themselves and pursue their creative strengths.

• Investigative Excursions (e.g. Hunter Wetlands Centre) - Curriculum-aligned excursions such as visits to the Hunter Wetlands Centre provide immersive learning experiences where students engage in real-world inquiry and environmental investigation.

• Children’s University - Children’s University encourages lifelong learning by recognising students’ participation in extracurricular activities, supporting curiosity, independence and academic aspiration.

• Callaghan College Pathways - Our partnership with Callaghan College strengthens transition and provides opportunities for high-potential learners to engage in enrichment, extension and future career pathways.

Across NSW

• Star Struck - Plattsburg students have the opportunity to participate in Star Struck, a large-scale performing arts production that develops creativity, teamwork, confidence and performance excellence
• Cultural Dance - Our Cultural Dance program celebrates identity and expression while providing students with opportunities to build coordination, creativity and cultural knowledge through performance.
• Yidaki with Uncle Alex - Led by Uncle Alex, students learn yidaki (didgeridoo) techniques, cultural stories and practices. This program strengthens cultural understanding, musical talent and respectful connection to Aboriginal culture.
• PSSA Involvement - Through PSSA sport, students with high physical ability can represent the school, developing teamwork, skill mastery and sportsmanship in a competitive setting.