High potential and gifted education

In our classroom

At Bundeena Public School, our teachers carefully identify each student's unique learning needs and use proven, evidence-informed teaching strategies to both challenge and inspire. We offer tailored learning pathways, including enrichment programs and opportunities for acceleration, to enable every student to reach their full potential.

Staff members closely monitor student growth, adapting lessons to suit the needs of the students. They identify students that show potential or are gifted in each of the four HPGE domains: Intellectual, Creative, Social Emotional and Physical. BPS also provides opportunities for parents to explain their children’s giftedness upon enrolment.

Learning is guided through the explicit teaching of critical thinking and problem-solving strategies, assisiting students to analyse information, make connections, evaluate ideas and tackle complex tasks with confidence. Open-ended tasks and inquiry units provide opportunities for students to explore their interests and develop higher-order thinking skills.

Learning groups are flexible, allowing students to take on leadership roles, while feedback focuses on their strengths, supported by clear goals and opportunities for self-assessment. Whether leading group projects, mentoring peers or contributing to class decision-making, students develop strong communication, teamwork and organisational skills.

Across our school

Bundeena Public School provides a wide range of opportunities to extend, enrich and challenge our high potential and gifted learners beyond the classroom. These programs are designed to cater to different areas of talent, interest and growth, ensuring students are supported across the four HPGE domains.

Our school has a dedicated HPGE team that foster a culture of high expectations throughout the entire school community. Our staff support students at every level by nurturing their talents and providing meaningful opportunities for growth. Our dedicated staff continuously engage in professional development to meet the diverse needs of all learners, including those with high potential and gifted abilities.

Students are provided with opportunities to participate in specialised  HPGE groups  that focus on the intellectual, creative, social-emotional and physical domains. These groups provide targeted learning experiences to strengthen advanced skills, nurture curiosity and encourage students to pursue their passions.

A variety of enrichment programs are offered throughout the year, including Public Speaking, Debating, Coding Club, Chess Club, Dance, Choir, Art, Creative writing competitions, and a range of sporting events. These activities give students opportunities to problem-solve, collaborate, think creatively and challenge themselves in new ways.

Students also take part in meaningful leadership and wellbeing initiatives. Opportunities include Buddies, student leadership roles through the SRC, and participation in the  M.A.T.E.S. (My Action To Encourage Someone)  program, which builds confidence, communication and teamwork. Our whole-school  wellbeing programs  further support students' social and emotional development.

Across NSW

Bundeena Public School proudly participates in a range of NSW-wide programs that extend our high potential and gifted learners beyond the local community. These opportunities allow students to showcase their abilities, collaborate with and learn from peers from across the state and develop advanced skills in a diverse range of domains. These activities include but are not limited to:

·         Debating

·         Public Speaking Competition

·         Writing competitions

·         Walk for Respectful Relationships Public Speaking competition

·         NSW Premier’s Spelling Bee Competition

·         NSW Game Changer Challenge

·         Makers Empire 3D Design Competition

·         Chess Competitions

·         Young Archie Competition

·         Inspired by Nature HPGE day at the Royal National Park Environmental Education Centre

·         Sutherland Shire Music Festival (Dance and Choir)

·         Zone Swimming, Athletics and Cross Country carnivals

·         Zone Representative sports

·         State Swimming, Athletics and Cross Country carnivals

·         Inclusive sports (Boccia and Ten Pin Bowling)