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A message from our principal, Mr Towney…

Welcome to Newcastle High School, a place where history and tradition meets innovation. Our aim is to provide a curriculum that is individualised, creating opportunities for student learning. One of the curriculum areas we are continually expanding is how we challenge and support Gifted and Talented students. Our Year 7 Young Achievers class provides a unique opportunity for students to transition to high school, allowing them to be exposed to a variety of learning experiences above and beyond the mainstream Year 7 curriculum. Students are then tracked and supported throughout their time at Newcastle High School and are offered additional learning experiences across Years 8-10 emphasising the skills that will help make them successful in Years 11 and 12.

Our GATS program at a glance

Stage 3 Primary

Enrichment Program

Stage 4 Young Achievers

Year 7 Young Achievers Class

Stage 5 Youth

Frontiers

Year 10 Senior Prep Program

Representative Sports

Leadership Program

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This pack contains an outline of our initial program for recognising, identifying and catering for Gifted and Talented Students from our school as well as a number of pieces of information, nomination forms and links to further information and support.

In the following pages you will find:

• The definitions of both Gifted Students and Talented Students our school has adopted, as well as a distinction between the two.

• A guide to some of the behavioural and academic characteristics recognised in many Gifted and/or Talented students.

• The proposed structure for identification of students within our school, our plan for provision of a program of support and enrichment for them at school and some possible future directions for our school.

• A student self-nomination form which allows students themselves to provide information which may assist in our identification and provision of enrichment.

• A parent nomination form which provides an opportunity for parents to communicate information to support their child’s involvement in our Gifted and Talented Program.

• A list of useful web links and resources containing DEC information and current support materials for Gifted and Talented students.

Using this pack-

Please have a look at the information provided and links for further investigation.

Any student or parent may complete the nomination forms enclosed and return to the GATS Coordinator, Ms R. McNeilly.

Further information, updates and additional nomination forms may be found on our school web site http://www.newcastle-h.schools.nsw.edu.au/ (under the Curriculum and Activities section).

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Some Definitions for Clarity

What is a gifted student?

Gifted students are those whose potential is distinctively above average in one or more of the following domains: intellectual, creative, social and physical.

What is a talented student?

Talented students are those whose skills are distinctly above average in one or more areas of human performance.

The difference is – giftedness is a broad concept that encompasses a range of abilities. Giftedness becomes talent as a result of training and practise. A gifted person will not become talented without application.

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Some Characteristics of Gifted and Talented Students

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Our process and timeline Nomination and Identification

The identification and nomination process for Gifted and Talented students is initiated through the following:

Expression of interest + enrolment payment for entrance examination

Term 2, Week 10 –Term 3 Week 2 29/06 – 28/07

Application pack: Nomination forms NAPLAN results

Term 3, Week 2 28/07

Entrance examination

Term 3, Week 4 07/08

Interview process Portfolio of evidence

Term 3, Week 6 21-22/09

Offer of placement Term 3, Week 7 01/09

Second round offers and reserve list established

Term 3, Week 10 18/09

Young Achievers’ transition program Term 4, Weeks 6-8 15, 22, 29/11

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This program is for students from Years 6, 7 and 8 who have been identified as demonstrating some of the characteristics of giftedness and talent. This identification may be from parental, self or teacher nomination in combination with conferencing and data gathering carried out by our GATS team.

Our Young Achievers have ongoing access to a variety of targeted activities in individual areas and whole group initiatives, aimed at offering ongoing stimulation and enrichment. Through these activities, school staff and external providers assist us in identifying key skills and areas for further advancement for individuals.

Stage 4 Young Achievers

Access to a range of GATactivities across all KLAsthroughout the year thatwill cater for the specificgifts or talents of yourchild. Participation in GATSGala Days, Passion Projects,Children's University.

Year 7 YA Class

As well as access to theYoung Achievers Program,this is a targeteddifferentiated class forstudents who exhibit a giftor talent and can workindependently. The classwill provide specific GATactivites, enrichmentprograms and extensionactivities. Students willparticipate in an AuthenticAssessment style processand participate in aPresentation.

Primary Enrichment program

Catering for our primaryfeeder schools, we have aseries of options targetingstudents wishing to applyto NHS Young AchieversProgram:1. Yr 4-5 EnrichmentWorkshop afternoons2. Yr 5 GATS Gala Day3. Yr 6 YA transitionprogram

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Expression of Interest for Gifted and Talented Program

Candidates are required to complete this nomination form by 28th July 2017 by 3.00pm. Nominations are to be returned to the front office at Newcastle High with payment of $20.00 for the entrance examination.

Selection process:

Placement test 1 hour examination held at Newcastle High, Monday 7th August, 9.30am

Placement interview All candidates are given the opportunity to support their nomination during a placement interview. Students will be allocated an interview time.

Student details

Name: _________________________________________________________________________________

Date of Birth: __________________________________________________________________________

Parent/carer: __________________________________________________________________________

Address (postal): __________________________________________________________________________

Phone (home /mobile): ___________________________________________________________________

Email (parent/carer): ______________________________________________________________________

Primary school: ___________________________________________________________________________

Teacher’s name: ___________________________________________________________________________

Parent signature (supporting nomination): _____________________________________________________

Applications to be addressed to: GATS Coordinator Newcastle High School, Parkway Ave, Hamilton South, 2303 Email: newcastle-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au - Attention above

Payments options - Newcastle High accepts payment by: • Cash • Cheque • EFTPOS / Credit Card (MOTO transactions are also accepted by telephone)

ALL RECEIPTS MUST BE KEPT AS ONLY ONE IS GENERATED AT TIME OF PAYMENT

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STUDENT/SELF NOMINATION FORM

Student's surname: ______________________ First Name: _______________________

Date of Birth: _________________________ Current Year Level: _____________

1. What is/are your favourite subject(s)? _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ 2. What do you enjoy about this subject/s? _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ 3. What are your particular strengths and abilities in learning and what do you find interesting or challenging? _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________

4. What are your special interests both in and out of school? _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ 5. List three recent events you have enjoyed most at school and explain why. _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ 6. Explain what you would like to get out of being in the Gifted and Talented program at Newcastle High School.

_________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________

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How would you rate yourself in the following areas? Most of the

Time Some of the Time

Rarely

I work out problems by thinking them through step by step

I enjoy listening to other possibilities and approaches

I recall information quickly I often see more than one possible solution to a problem - I try to be flexible and think creatively

I want to understand how I learn I understand things well enough I can teach others I am curious and have a quest for knowledge I am self-sufficient and can think independently I can express myself fluently

Most of the Time

Some of the Time

Rarely

I have a well-developed sense of humour I am easily bored I am concerned about world issues I am empathetic and feel more deeply than my peers

I am a perfectionist I have a need to understand what is being taught to me

I question rules and authority I persevere with a concept until I understand it

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Student Name: Year:

Parent Name:

Circle the subjects that you wish to nominate your child for:

All Subjects Mathematics English Science History

Geography Visual Arts Technology Drama Music PD/H/PE Other

Please complete the following checklist by ticking the appropriate box. This will provide a starting point from which the school can proceed to make an assessment of your child’s level of giftedness and talent.

F = Frequently O=Occasionally R=Rarely

Characteristic Behaviours F O R

Heightened levels of curiosity and a wide variety of interests

Asks questions

Investigates ideas

Remembers things in great detail (but may forget short term everyday matters)

Demonstrates a great deal of factual knowledge

Long attention span Remains focused on challenging tasks for extended periods of time

Undertakes long term projects of interest to them

Ability to handle abstract ideas

Has an interest in abstract ideas. This may be reflected in their reading where they read magazines in areas such as politics or science. These students have a sense of the consequences of their own actions on themselves and others.

Flexibility in thinking

Seeks to resolve problems and issues at home by negotiation involving the creation of solutions rather than aggression

A risk taker (both positive and negative behaviours may be evident)

Alert and subtle sense of humour

Uses humorous speech

Tells ‘funny’ stories

Understands ‘adult’ humour

Superior vocabulary and verbal ability

Participates in discussions using advanced/sophisticated vocabulary

Conducts ‘adult’ conversations

Advanced reading ability Reads widely with high levels of comprehension

Understands complex and abstract concepts

Newcastle High School

Gifted and Talented Program

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Characteristic Behaviours F O R

Excellent retention of knowledge

Accurate recall of facts, details and events

Dislikes repetition

Superior reasoning and retention of knowledge

Independent worker Self-directed/ learns independently

High level of personal responsibility and commitment

Accepts responsibility for their own successes and failures

Tolerant of other viewpoints and differences in other people’s background and beliefs

Strong feelings and opinions

Tolerant of other opinions and feelings

Develops listening skills

Concerned with morals, ethics and world issues

Preference for unusual, original and creative responses

Asks curious and often insightful questions

Leadership Takes control

Seeks opportunities for responsibility

Emotional characteristics

Perfectionist (self-critical)

Low self-esteem

May be withdrawn or aggressive

Parent Comment: Please indicate the main reasons why you believe your child should be considered for participation in the Gifted and Talented Program and attach any additional documentation, such as NAPLAN results.

(Adapted from Gross, M. U. M. Sleap, B. & Pretorius, M. (1999). Gifted students in secondary schools: Differentiating the curriculum. Sydney: University of New South Wales, GERRIC [Gifted Education Research, Resource and Information Centre]

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You may find it useful to refer to the document Characteristic Behaviours of Gifted and Talented Students provided.

Student Name: __________________________________ Year: __________

Teacher Name: __________________________________ Date: __________

Circle the subjects that you wish to nominate this student for:

All Subjects Mathematics English Science History

Geography Technology Visual Arts Drama Music Other

Circle each behaviour you observe in the classroom or playground.

Characteristic Positive Behaviours Negative Behaviours

1. Highly curious • asks lots of questions • is inquisitive • remembers details

• asks inappropriate questions • poor group participant • easily diverted from task

2. Abstract thinker • makes generalisations • tests out ideas

• questions others • questions authority

3. Flexible thinker • employs variety of strategies to work something out

• manipulates people and situations by using a variety of strategies

4. Clever use of humour

• enjoys ‘adult’ humour • gets teachers’ jokes!

• uses humour at the expense of others

5. Superior vocabulary

• heightened involvement in discussions

• enjoys adult-like discussions

• may be bossy or overbearing when working with others

6. Advanced

reading • reads widely • advanced vocabulary and

comprehension

• reads constantly • neglects peer interaction and work – prefers to

read 7. Retention of

knowledge; fast learner

• moves beyond core content and skills quickly

• detailed recall of facts

• rushes work, then disrupts others • monopolises class discussions

8. Long attention span

• concentrates and focuses on an area of interest for a long period of time

• easily distracted unless the task is an area of passion or interest

9. Independent • self-directed • focused on task in research or study

• reduced involvement in discussion or group work

• uncooperative in a group 10. High level of

responsibility and commitment

• sets attainable goals • learns to accept own limitations • tolerant of peers in a group

• self-critical • perfectionist when completing tasks • sets unrealistic expectations for other group

members 11. Strong feelings

and opinions • listens to others • shows concern and interest • considers others’ points of view • aware of others’ feelings

• speaks out and lacks tact • over-reacts to others’ comments and reactions • confrontational

Newcastle High School

Gifted and Talented Program

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Characteristic Positive Behaviours Negative Behaviours

12. Strong sense of justice

• empathises with those less fortunate

• wants to ‘save the world’ • stands up for other children whom

they think have been poorly treated

• argues the rules in game e.g. handball • frustration when others don’t play exactly by

rules • asks older children or adults to solve issues seen

as ‘unfair’ 13. Original and

creative • comes up with ideas ‘out of the box’ • sees problems as a whole • connects thoughts and feelings

• unaccepting of status quo • absent-minded or daydreamer • asks unrelated questions • disorganised

14. High energy level • wide variety of interests • organises time well • high level of individualised learning

• often difficult to live with • may appear hyperactive • easily bored so seeks out new things to explore

15. Immersion learner

• wants to know everything about a topic

• becomes an expert on a topic by reading widely or talking to people

• focuses on topics of interest to them, at the expense of classroom work

• shows off knowledge to prove others wrong

(Merrick & Targett, 2005)

Scoring the checklist How many positive behaviours are being displayed?

How many negative behaviours are being displayed?

Have you highlighted behaviours in more than 6 different behaviour boxes YES/NO

Of which behaviours are you observing more POSITIVE/NEGATIVE

Conclusions

Tick your recommendation

Should definitely be considered for the gifted and talented program (displays behaviours in 10+ characteristics)

Should be considered for the gifted and talented program and further discussion required (displays behaviours in 6-8 characteristics)

I can’t place my finger on it but there is something interesting about this student

Current class is appropriate for this student

(Adapted from Castle Hill HS form at NSW Department of Education and Training, 2004) Policy and implementation strategies for the education of gifted and talented students: Support package: Identification available at http://www.curriculumsupport.education.nsw.gov.au/policies/gats/support/index.htm

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Additional information

We would love to know more about you!

The entrance exam

We will be utilising the UNSW GAT examination. This is a two-hour General Achievement Test designed specifically for students in the middle years of schooling. This test is a school-administered assessment which provides a reliable and objective measurement of students’ proficiency across the core skills of Mathematics, Reading and Language and Writing.

Portfolio

Please provide your current NAPLAN results and up to FOUR pieces of additional information and/or material that you feel reflects your gifts, talents or particular interests.

These support pieces may be recommendations, awards/certificates, showcasing something in which you excel or have a passion for, photos, participation in alternate activities or programs, camps etc.

You may choose to present them in any manner you choose: folder portfolio, e-portfolio, interactive multi-modal format, photos etc.

The interview

The interview is our way to get to meet you. You will be asked about yourself and your interests in front of our panel. You will also need to discuss your portfolio, what these pieces reflect about you and your passions.

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Useful Links for more Information The Department of Education and Communities GATS Homepage:

http://www.curriculumsupport.education.nsw.gov.au/policies/gats/index.htm

Has links to a lot information:

Policy

http://www.curriculumsupport.education.nsw.gov.au/policies/gats/index.htm

Policy Support Documents

http://www.curriculumsupport.education.nsw.gov.au/policies/gats/support/index.htm

Teacher Tools

http://www.curriculumsupport.education.nsw.gov.au/policies/gats/tools/index.htm

Programs and Provisions

http://www.curriculumsupport.education.nsw.gov.au/policies/gats/programs/index.htm

Gifted and Talented Kindergarten Project

http://www.curriculumsupport.education.nsw.gov.au/beststart/gats/index.htm

Professional Learning

http://www.curriculumsupport.education.nsw.gov.au/policies/gats/prolearn/index.htm

Resources

http://www.curriculumsupport.education.nsw.gov.au/policies/gats/resources/index.htm

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Competitions and Opportunities

http://www.curriculumsupport.education.nsw.gov.au/policies/gats/opportunities/index.htm

What’s New

http://www.curriculumsupport.education.nsw.gov.au/policies/gats/new/index.htm

FAQs

http://www.curriculumsupport.education.nsw.gov.au/policies/gats/faqs/index.htm

Contact Information

http://www.curriculumsupport.education.nsw.gov.au/policies/gats/contact/index.htm

NSW Association for Gifted & Talented Children:

www.nswagtc.org.au

Provides information, links and resources.