Extension class

Outline of the program

The Extension Class program offers high quality, personalised, future-focused learning for students in Years 7 and 8. Grounded in the latest research on Interest-Based Learning (IBL), the program provides opportunities for students to confidently develop and showcase their creativity, critical thinking, and interests. Students are supported, guided, and mentored in an environment that fosters collaboration, creativity, critical thinking, and communication skills essential for success in a rapidly changing world.

Entry is by application and selection panel. The program is designed for learners who are:

• Curious, motivated, and love learning
• Willing to collaborate and extend themselves academically
• Capable of working independently and in teams
• Eager to engage in creative, interest-based projects

The program works to develop students' curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Students learn through structured tasks, independent projects, and interest-based cross-faculty opportunities. They are encouraged to take ownership of their learning, explore new ideas, and experiment.

Students have access to collaborative learning spaces, state-of-the-art facilities, and external learning competitions. They participate in open-ended assessment tasks, group work, and projects that regularly integrate digital technologies.

Extension Class Vision

The Extension Class program nurtures the creative and socio-emotional potential of students in Years 7 and 8 through personalised, interest-based learning. Aligned with the NSW Department of Education’s High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) policy, the program empowers students to explore their passions, think critically, collaborate with others, and communicate their ideas with confidence. By fostering curiosity, creativity, and resilience, the program prepares students to become independent, innovative learners ready to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

At our school, we are committed to recognising and developing the diverse potential of every student. Guided by the NSW Department of Education’s High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) policy, we provide opportunities for students to extend their abilities through challenging learning experiences that foster creativity, critical thinking, collaboration and resilience. Our programs support students to explore their interests, develop confidence in their ideas, and grow as capable, future-focused learners.

Interest-Based Learning and Future-Focused Education

The program is informed by the latest research on Interest-Based Learning, which encourages students to explore their passions and direct their own learning within the curriculum. Through this, they develop transferable skills such as:

• Creativity – generating and presenting original ideas
• Collaboration – Working effectively in teams
• Critical thinking – drawing evidence-based conclusions
• Communication – Expressing ideas with confidence

This future-focused approach prepares students for senior study and beyond by building resilience, confidence, and independence as self-directed learners.

Who is a Good Candidate?

Successful students demonstrate:

• Organisation and time management – managing tasks and projects independently
• Collaboration – working effectively in group and team environments
• Public speaking and communication – presenting ideas with confidence
• Critical and creative thinking – solving problems, analysing information, and generating new ideas
• Self-motivation – showing initiative and persistence in learning

The program suits students who enjoy:

• Group work and collaborative learning

• Exploring new ideas and experimenting

• Pursuing their interests through learning

• Actively participating in open and creative assessment tasks

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