High potential and gifted education
At Blackheath Public School (BPS), we are proud to support the unique abilities and potential of every student through our focus on High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE). Our experienced teachers are committed to recognising each child’s individual strengths and talents, ensuring they are supported and challenged both in and out of the classroom. By getting to know our students deeply, we tailor learning experiences that include thoughtful differentiation and enrichment opportunities that stimulate higher-order thinking and creativity. This personalised approach helps students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally as they explore their interests and reach new heights.
Beyond the classroom, BPS offers an extensive array of extra-curricular opportunities that span academic, artistic, sporting, and leadership domains. These activities complement classroom learning and provide our students with diverse experiences to develop their skills, passions, and confidence. We encourage our students to engage in these programs to deepen their talents and connect with like-minded peers. At Blackheath Public School, we are dedicated to fostering a vibrant learning community where all gifted and high potential students can shine.
Supporting parents and carers
Advice for parents and carers of high potential and gifted students.
The High Potential and Gifted Education Policy has been developed after extensive consultation with parent organisations including the Federation of Parents and Citizens Association of NSW, Gifted Families Support Group and Gifted Learners with Disability Australia.
Signs of high potential
High potential and gifted children tend to:
- be intensely curious
- learn new ideas or skills quickly and easily
- display a good memory
- ask complex questions
- be creative
- enjoy thinking in complex ways
- require fewer repetitions when learning new things
- become intensely focused in their area of interest or passion.
Children with high potential like to be challenged. If you observe your child is more advanced than their peers, in any area or domain, it is recommended that you discuss this with your child's teacher or other professional.
A rapid rate of learning means these children may enjoy opportunities beyond the typical level of other children their age.
Resources are available to support your child at school and at home.
Enriching activities offered at Blackheath Public School
Below are some of the enriching activities offered at Blackheath Public School.
- Tournament of the Minds
- Brewongle Writer’s camp (Stage 3)
- Maths Olympiad
- ICAS Assessment opportunities
- Stage 2 and Stage 3 Choir
- School Band
- Extension maths groups
- Writing group
- Rosella Rap
- Recorder Group
- Rosella Dance Group
- Stage 2/3 Dance group
- Leadership Team/Leadership opportunities – Green Team, Tech Team, House Captains, SRC
- Leadership seminar in the city
- Leadership development day with KHS
- Basketball Tournament @ KHS
- Basketball PSSA team Tournament
- Blue Mountains Primary School Sports Association – Carnivals, Trials and Region/State/ National
- Premier’s Spelling Bee
- Film By the Eucalypts – Student Film Making Project Event
- Band – Private tutors
- Debating
- Public Speaking
- Peer Support
Our extra-curricular highlights
Creative and performing arts
Our art, band, dance, film, and music programs help students be creative, express themselves and learn new skills. They can join in concerts, performances, local film festivals, and art showcases.
Sport opportunities
Our students are given opportunities to participate and succeed across a range of sports, including through school sport programs, PSSA, and local school network gala days. We have had many students successful in making through to zone, regional and state levels for sport and athletics.
Public speaking
Students can develop their thinking, communication and teamwork skills through debating and public speaking. They also have the chance to compete in local and state events.
Trips and excursions
Our students enjoy getting out of the classroom to explore, learn and try new things. These experiences help them grow, build confidence and see how their learning connects to the world.