Gifted and Talented

Sylvania’s Gifted and Talented

Sylvania High aims to cater for the individual learning needs of all students. Gifted and Talented students are defined by the Department of Education as follows:

The definitions are based on Gagné’s (2003) Differentiated Model of Giftedness and Talent (DMGT).

• Gifted students are those whose potential is distinctly above average in one or more of the following domains of human ability: intellectual, creative, social and physical.
• Talented students are those whose skills are distinctly above average in one or more areas of human performance.

(NSW Department of Education GAT policy)

At Sylvania High School we offer at least one enrichment class in Years 7 and 8.  Students with the appropriate academic ability are given opportunities to develop and refine their knowledge, talent and skills through differentiated curriculum and enrichment projects.

In the middle school, classes are streamed to foster the potential, ability and skills in our students at all levels. Elective courses are utilised to develop student learning in areas of interest and in a manner that fosters investigative learning.

In the performing arts, students have many opportunities to extend their ability including drama, dance, music ensembles and the school  band program. Our performing arts students are often chosen to represent the school in state and national arenas successfully showcasing their talents and skills. In the Years 11 and 12, Extension courses are offered in Science, English and Mathematics.

Currently we have the following Enrichment and Leadership programs/projects:

• Debating
• Public Speaking
• Writing Competitions
• Drama Ensemble
• Theatre Sports
• Film Festivals
• Dance Ensembles( junior and senior)
• Instrumental Ensembles
• Stage Band
• Drums
• Vocal
• Representative Sport
• Student Representative Council
• Special Interest Group (The dux of each academic year is mentored by members of staff in individually tailored projects)
• White Ribbon Committee