High potential and gifted education

At our school, we believe every student deserves the chance to discover, develop, and extend their talents. Guided by the NSW High Potential and Gifted Education approach, we work to recognise students whose abilities in the intellectual, creative, social–emotional, or physical domains show advanced potential or achievement.

Our teachers are highly skilled in identifying the diverse ways high potential may present and in designing learning experiences that nurture this growth. Through evidence-informed practices, targeted extension, and thoughtfully differentiated programs, we ensure students are challenged at an appropriate level and encouraged to strive for personal excellence. Enrichment opportunities across all four domains are continually developed to inspire deep engagement, critical thinking, and ongoing curiosity.

We understand that a student’s growth is shaped by both their individual traits and the learning environment around them. For this reason, we intentionally cultivate conditions that promote resilience, motivation, and a strong sense of belonging—key elements in helping students reach their full potential.

Partnerships with parents and carers play an essential role in supporting each learner’s journey. Our staff have undertaken comprehensive professional learning in high potential and gifted education and remain committed to providing inclusive, stimulating, and uplifting educational experiences that empower every student to shine.

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

Visual Arts: A local artist works with students in specialised art lessons, guiding them through advanced techniques, creative problem-solving, and opportunities to experiment with new mediums. This allows students with artistic talent to extend their skills in an authentic, hands-on environment.

Rich opportunities and activities

Music: A local musician leads weekly music sessions, teaching instrument skills, performance techniques, and musical expression. Students who show strong musical ability are offered further opportunities to refine their talent, collaborate with peers, and grow in confidence as performers.

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.

What is high potential and gifted education?

High potential and gifted education (HPGE) is how our school supports students with advanced learning needs.

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.

Our high potential and gifted education opportunities

Our students engage with HPGE education in the classroom, in our school, and across NSW.

How students engage in HPGE

In our classroom

Our classrooms are dynamic and inclusive spaces where students are encouraged to explore ideas, challenge themselves, and pursue their personal best. Learning is driven by inquiry, with students collaborating on meaningful, real-world projects through programs such as STEAM and Cultural Learning.

Students set goals, reflect on their progress, and celebrate their achievements, fostering ownership and confidence. Flexible grouping and personalised feedback ensure that high potential and gifted learners are continually extended and supported.

Grounded in research and ongoing reflection, our teaching practices ensure that every student experiences purposeful, measurable growth.

Across our school

At Matong Public School, we believe every child deserves the chance to shine. Our welcoming school community values diversity, creativity, and student voice, helping all learners feel supported and confident to reach their full potential. Learning happens everywhere—not just in the classroom. Students get to explore their interests through fun and engaging programs such as STEM, sport, creative arts, and a wide range of cultural activities. Students also take part in leadership, wellbeing, and community projects that build confidence, kindness, and a strong sense of belonging. Our teachers are caring, experienced, and committed to understanding each child as an individual. They use proven techniques to make learning meaningful, challenging, and enjoyable for everyone.

We are proud to work with local organisations, councils and schools to create real-world learning experiences that help prepare our students for bright futures.

Across NSW

Across NSW, our students enjoy exciting opportunities to learn, connect, and challenge themselves. They take part in zone, regional, and state sporting pathways, develop confidence through debating and public speaking, and explore real-world STEM projects.