High potential and gifted education

In our classroom

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

We do this through:

• Teacher identification of current HPGE students in getting to know your students sessions using a range of data sources
• Effective differentiation in programming including tiers of learning activities - hard, harder, hardest with teaching strategies that are aimed at extension and innovation for HPG students
• Planning for talent development and opportunities across all subjects and domains
• Tailored support during lessons that stretch, challenge and inspire
• Access to a wide range of opportunities both within and beyond our school across with each faculty planning, organising and running 'legacy projects', clubs and extracurricular activities such as in Science with the Game Changer challenge, Aiming High, CSSI program and the Science Symposium that cover creative, intellectual, social emotional and physical domains of achievement. See table for more opportunities
• Offering three HSC accelerated courses

Aboriginal Studies:

Accelerated Stage 6 Aboriginal Studies is an academically enriching course for students interested in social justice, government policy, rights and freedoms, reconciliation, and contemporary domestic and international Indigenous issues. It suits students who wish to extend their understanding of colonial and First Nations histories, as well as legislation and reform.

The course develops critical thinking, research, and analytical skills through the study of the historical and contemporary experiences of Aboriginal peoples. Students will undertake independent research, construct well-supported arguments, reflect on their role as informed and active citizens and engage with Community Consultation.

Japanese Beginners:

Accelerated Stage 6 Japanese Beginners is a dynamic senior course for students interested in language learning, intercultural communication, and global engagement. It is designed for students with little or no prior experience of Japanese who are motivated to fast-track their language studies while gaining insight into contemporary Japanese society and culture.

The course develops students’ listening, speaking, reading and writing skills through the study of authentic language and cultural contexts. Students will build confidence using Japanese for real-world purposes, develop strategies for independent language learning, and reflect on the role of language and culture in a globalised world.

Investigating Science:

Accelerated Investigating Science is an exciting opportunity for curious, academically driven students to develop deep understanding of the scientific process, and engage with scientific theories and practical experimentation at an above stage level.

The course promotes active inquiry and the planning and conducting of evidence-based investigations. It provides opportunities for problem-solving and making informed scientific decisions. Students engage in examples and situations that relate to biology, chemistry, earth sciences and physics. The Investigating Science course is designed to complement the study of other science disciplines and provides additional opportunities for students to develop capability and capacity in critical thinking, problem-solving and develop and communicate evidence-based arguments and make informed decisions.

Across our school

Across NSW

Our students participate in a wide range of programs to extend their potential.

Pittwater students actively participate in a wide range of academic and sporting competitions, including gala days, Combined High Schools knockout events, and selection for zone, regional, and state carnivals.

Students also engage in academic challenges such as ICAS English, Mathematics, Science and the Australian Mathematics Competition.

The Schools Spectacular is an iconic performing arts event that celebrates the talents, diversity and creativity of students from NSW public schools. In 2024 and 2025 some of our high potential and gifted students participated in this state-wide event

2025 HSC Nominations included: Major Work SHAPE nomination in Design and Technology, Industrial Technology Multimedia and Timber

Students selected for Manly Art Gallery “Out Front” for their HSC Art work as well as the Art Express Exhibition

iSTEM students represented Pittwater High School in the Department of Education’s Game Changer Challenge

Year 10 students participated in the HPGE CSSI program in collaboration with Newport Public school students, presenting their work at a showcase display at Pittwater High School, judged by academic professionals from the University of Technology Sydney.