High potential and gifted education

In our classroom

At Ellerston Public School, High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) is embedded in our everyday practice. We challenge our students to think deeply, create boldly, lead confidently, and grow continually. Our commitment is to recognise and nurture the high potential of every student, ensuring that all learners have the opportunity to thrive.

Our teachers identify and respond to students’ learning needs through evidence-informed teaching practices that both challenge and extend. We offer differentiated learning pathways, including enrichment and extension opportunities, designed to stretch thinking and inspire curiosity.

We cultivate supportive and inclusive classrooms where students feel a strong sense of belonging and are encouraged to take risks, explore new ideas, and collaborate meaningfully. Learning experiences are designed to promote choice, authenticity, and critical and creative thinking.

Our teachers engage in ongoing professional learning to ensure they can meet the diverse needs of all students, including our high potential and gifted learners.

Our approach aligns with the NSW Department of Education’s HPGE Policy, which recognises giftedness across four key domains:

• Creative Domain: Fostering originality, imagination, and innovation through creative thinking, problem-solving, and artistic pursuits.

• Intellectual (Cognitive) Domain: Providing rich, challenging learning experiences that promote advanced thinking, inquiry, and intellectual growth.

• Physical Domain: Encouraging development of physical skills, coordination, and wellbeing through engaging and challenging activities.

• Social-Emotional Domain: Supporting emotional intelligence, resilience, and positive social interactions to enhance the wellbeing of gifted learners.

At Ellerston Public School, we are dedicated to developing the whole child—recognising and nurturing each student’s unique potential across all four domains—so that every learner is empowered to achieve and succeed.

Across our school

At Ellerston Public School, our staff are committed to continuous growth and excellence. They regularly participate in professional learning to ensure the most current, research-based teaching practices are used in every classroom.

Our students are encouraged to explore their interests, develop new skills, and challenge themselves through a wide range of enriching opportunities, including:
• Debating
• Peer mentoring
• Student leadership opportunities
• Whole-school inclusion and wellbeing initiatives
• Public speaking
• Learn to Swim program
• Cultural activities
• Excursions and incursions
• Lunchtime and interest-based clubs
• Musica Viva
• Environmental education
• Paddock to Plate projects
• STEAM learning experiences

These experiences nurture curiosity, confidence, and creativity—helping every student discover their strengths and thrive both in and beyond the classroom.

Across NSW

At Ellerston Public School, we are always exploring new opportunities to meet the educational needs of our students and help them reach their full potential. Our students take part in a wide range of statewide programs that inspire learning, leadership, and personal growth — including the Premier’s Sporting Challenge and Premier’s Reading Challenge.

Through the Representative School Sport Pathway and PSSA events, students can proudly represent our school and community, competing at regional, state, and even national levels. These experiences build confidence, teamwork, and a strong sense of achievement.

We also connect students with NSW Department of Education programs and other statewide opportunities designed to support high potential and gifted learners. Our staff actively encourage and assist students with entries, ensuring every child has the chance to explore their interests, showcase their talents, and shine.