High potential and gifted education

At Main Arm Upper Public School, high potential and gifted education is embedded in everyday classroom practice. We recognise that every child has unique strengths and the capacity to thrive when they are known, supported and thoughtfully challenged.

Teachers identify students’ learning needs through observation, assessment and professional judgement, using evidence-informed teaching practices to extend thinking, deepen understanding and spark curiosity across all learning areas.

Flexible learning pathways support high potential and gifted students through enrichment and extension opportunities, differentiated tasks and, where appropriate, acceleration. Learning experiences provide choice, authenticity and real-world connections, encouraging critical, creative and independent thinking.

Our classrooms are calm, inclusive spaces where students feel a strong sense of belonging. We encourage respectful risk-taking, collaboration and creativity, enabling learners to stretch themselves while feeling safe and valued.

Teachers engage in ongoing professional learning to ensure they are well equipped to support the diverse needs of all students. Through strong relationships and high expectations, we work together to help every learner grow, flourish and achieve their personal best.

Every student is an individual, and learning opportunities at Main Arm Upper Public School are flexible, varied and responsive. Students are encouraged to deepen their strengths through public speaking, competitions, project-based learning and STEM pathways, including coding and robotics.

Talents are celebrated and shared through whole-school events and creative showcases, including school spectaculars, Music in the Valley performances, music ensembles, choir and art workshops. Leadership is nurtured through the Student Representative Council, peer buddy programs, mentoring, peer coaching and student-led initiatives, with wellbeing made visible through class and school recognition.

Daily school life invites curiosity, connection and a strong sense of belonging. Students enjoy open access to the sports shed each lunchtime with student led lunchtime interest based games.

Sport is an important part of life at Main Arm, with VoSS carnivals for swimming, cross country and athletics, school house sporting activities, daily fitness sessions, PSSA sport and differentiated physical education. Weekly after-school basketball coaching further supports skill development, teamwork and confidence.

Our students participate in a wide range of statewide programs designed to extend learning and enrich student potential. These opportunities include programs such as the Maths Olympiad and Creative Arts Camp, which provide challenge, inspiration and connection beyond the classroom.

Additional NSW Department of Education support is available for high potential and gifted students, and we actively support students and families with nominations and entries into regional and statewide opportunities.