High Potential and Gifted Education

At Elizabeth Macarthur High School we are committed to supporting every student achieve their educational potential by providing talent development opportunities and differentiated learning experiences that are aimed at raising expectations and building student capabilities. The school’s vision is based on the premise that excellence comes when students and staff commit to becoming the best they can be and providing opportunities for students to meet their potential in a meaningful way.

Our High Potential and Gifted Education programs and extra-curricular opportunities have been developed to promote engagement and challenge for every student. We believe high potential students from all backgrounds should have access to quality learning opportunities that meet their needs and aspirations, and we use evidence-based talent development to optimise growth and achievement across all domains of potential – intellectual, physical, creative and social/emotional.

EMHS Academy

Shaping future leaders, artists, athletes, intellectuals and change-makers by creating boundless opportunities.

Learning

Learn about learning at our school.

Opportunities and activities

We offer a range of co-curricular programs to support student's goals both inside and outside of the classroom.

Wellbeing and support

Find out about how we support student wellbeing and the learning support available.

Identification of Students

  • Recognising students with high potential or giftedness in academic, creative, social, or leadership domains.

  • Using a range of evidence including teacher observation, assessment results, and external testing.

Differentiated Learning

  • Providing appropriately challenging learning experiences that extend students’ thinking and skills.

  • Adjusting curriculum, pace, depth, and complexity to match students’ abilities.

Enrichment and Extension

  • Offering enrichment programs, activities, and projects that broaden knowledge and develop higher-order thinking.

  • Encouraging problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking beyond the standard curriculum.

Acceleration Where Appropriate

  • Allowing students to progress through curriculum at a faster rate in areas of strength if suitable.

  • Providing flexible learning pathways to match students’ abilities and learning needs.

Social and Emotional Support

  • Recognising that gifted students may have unique social and emotional needs.

  • Supporting wellbeing, resilience, and positive peer relationships alongside academic growth.

Teacher Expertise and Professional Learning

  • Ensuring teachers are trained to identify and support high potential and gifted learners.

  • Using evidence-based strategies to differentiate and challenge students effectively.

Collaboration with Families

  • Engaging parents and carers in planning and supporting their child’s learning.

  • Providing information and resources to help families understand HPGE needs and opportunities.

Equity and Access
Ensuring all students with high potential have access to appropriate programs, including students from diverse backgrounds and those with additional learning needs.