High potential and gifted education
High Potential and Gifted Education at Lithgow Public School
Lithgow Public School is proud to provide a dynamic learning environment where high potential and gifted students are identified, challenged and supported to thrive. Guided by the NSW Department of Education’s High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) Policy, our school delivers a whole-school approach that nurtures talent across the four domains:
- Intellectual
- Creative
- Social-emotional
- Physical
A Unique Opportunity in Our Region
Lithgow Public School is the only government primary school in the region offering a Stage 3 Opportunity Class, providing academically gifted students with specialised learning pathways in Years 5 and 6. visit Selective High Schools and Opportunity Classes.
Our high potential and gifted education opportunities
We recognise that high potential exists in many forms. Our programs aim to develop students’ abilities into strengths and talents through targeted support, extension and enrichment opportunities.
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.
We use multiple measures to identify high potential and gifted learners, including:
- teacher observations and professional judgement
- assessment data
- student work samples
- performance in enrichment activities
- parent and student input
Our approach ensures that students from all cultural, linguistic and socio-economic backgrounds are recognised and supported. Every student has the right to access challenging learning opportunities.
Our Opportunity Class provides:
- advanced curriculum units
- accelerated and compacted learning
- project-based and inquiry learning
- collaboration with like-minded peers
- explicit teaching of critical and creative thinking
Students engage in rich learning experiences that promote independence, innovation and leadership. Many graduates successfully transition to selective high schools and gifted secondary programs.
High potential and gifted students are supported across all year levels through:
- differentiated curriculum content
- flexible grouping
- extension tasks
- enrichment projects
- personalised learning goals
Teachers adapt learning based on readiness, interests and learning profiles, ensuring challenge and engagement for all learners.
Our STEM enrichment opportunities include:
- robotics and coding
- engineering design challenges
- advanced science investigations
- mathematics extension groups
These programs foster curiosity, problem-solving and collaboration, preparing students for future STEM pathways.
Students with creative talents are extended through:
- visual arts programs
- drama and dance groups
- exhibitions and showcases
- local and regional performance opportunities
Our students regularly participate in prestigious events such as the NSW School Spectacular, celebrating excellence in the performing arts.
High potential musicians access:
- instrumental and vocal tuition
- ensemble and choir programs
- composition and performance workshops
- external competitions and festivals
Music education builds creativity, confidence and teamwork while providing opportunities to perform publicly.
Our school offers extensive pathways for physically talented students, including:
- rugby league, hockey, soccer, netball, basketball
- athletics and swimming
Through the Western Schools Sports Association, students can progress to district, regional, state and national levels. Staff with high-level coaching experience support and motivate students to excel.
Students can participate in:
- debating and public speaking
- environmental and community projects
- leadership programs and student voice initiatives
We partner with organisations such as the University of Western Sydney, providing access to workshops, guest lectures and specialised programs that extend learning beyond the classroom.
Digital learning tools and online platforms allow students to:
- collaborate with peers beyond the local area
- engage in virtual competitions
- access advanced learning resources
Technology enhances personalisation and extends learning for gifted students.
Our teachers engage in continuous professional learning aligned with the HPGE Policy, focusing on:
- identifying high potential and gifted students
- differentiation and curriculum adjustments
- talent development strategies
- evidence-informed practice
Systematic assessment and feedback ensure learning remains challenging, relevant and responsive.
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.
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.
Student opportunities and activities
Discover the opportunities our students have at our school.
Learning
Find out about our approach to learning and supporting students to progress