High potential and gifted education

Some students learn faster and more easily than others. These students may shine in creativity, thinking, leadership or sport.

At our school we recognise and nurture these strengths early. Through engaging lessons, weekly enrichment groups and a wide range of activities, we support advanced learners to grow, connect and thrive.

Why choose us for your high potential or gifted child?

Recognising potential and developing talent

Our teachers find potential and nurture our students to be the best they can be.

Tailored lessons

Each student has different abilities. Teachers respond to each student’s ability by providing extra challenges and extension activities to keep learning exciting and engaging.

Rich opportunities and activities

Students can take part in opportunities to develop their talent in the arts, sport, leadership and more.

Opening doors to wider experiences

Our students can participate in a wide range of state-wide opportunities that aim to extend and enrich student potential.

What is high potential and gifted education?

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

We do this through:

effective teaching strategies like enrichment, extension and acceleration

tailored support during lessons that stretch, challenge and inspire

access to a wide range of opportunities both within and beyond our school.

Our high potential and gifted education opportunities

Our students engage with HPGE education in the classroom, in our school, and across NSW.

In our classroom

At Forest Lodge Public School, HPGE lives in everyday practice. We are committed to recognising and nurturing high potential and gifted students from Kindergarten to Year 6, ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive in their learning.

Students may engage in:

Differentiated tasks that adjust pace, complexity and higher-order thinking.
Learning experiences that promote creativity, collaboration, communication and critical thinking through authentic, cross-curricular projects.
Supportive and safe environments that encourage confidence, risk-taking and perseverance.
Opportunities for exploration, self-assessment and leadership within the classroom.
Feedback and reflection that build on strengths, set clear goals and celebrate progress.

Across our school

At Forest Lodge Public School, every student is unique, so opportunities are flexible and diverse.

Students engage in:

Weekly Enrichment Groups (LEAPers), where students explore interests across the intellectual, creative, social-emotional and physical domains.
Student leadership opportunities through the SRC and school leadership roles.
Sporting carnivals and events that encourage participation, teamwork and pathways to regional representation.
A vibrant music and performing arts program, including choirs, bands, recorder groups and string ensembles.
After-school programs in coding, languages, chess, karate, dance, visual arts and writing.
Competitions in debating and public speaking.
Enrichment opportunities across all four domains, such as our K-2 Acknowledgement of Country student collaboration project.

Across NSW

Our students also take part in opportunities that extend beyond our school, connecting them with regional and state-wide programs.

Students may engage in:

Academic competitions such as the Premier’s Spelling Bee
Creative and performing arts events including the Festival of Instrumental Music, the Cantabile Festival at the Sydney Opera House and the School Spectacular
Regional and state sporting pathways through cross country, athletics carnivals and other representative events
Enrichment experiences in areas such as creative writing and the arts
Collaborative opportunities with other schools, such as Stage 3 students working with RPA Hospital School on a Film By entry that transformed poems into a short film about belonging

Flodge LEAPers

At Forest Lodge Public School, we are proud to offer our Flodge LEAPers Groups, a program designed to enhance student learning through meaningful opportunities. LEAPers encourages our students to explore passions, develop new skills, and engage in authentic experiences beyond the traditional classroom. This initiative aims to foster student engagement, a strong sense of achievement, build belonging, and strengthen our community connections.

Our LEAPers program aligns with the High potential and gifted education (HPGE) policy, focusing on student development across four key domains:

Intellectual: Challenging minds with problem-solving, STEM activities and introducing new languages.

Creative: Nurturing imagination through visual arts, drama and innovative projects.

Social-Emotional: Developing confident leadership, encouraging ethical discussions and enhancing critical thinking.

Physical: Inspiring active learning through dance, sport, movement-based exploration and outdoor challenges.

Empowering Choice and Discovery

Student choice is a fundamental aspect of LEAPers. Our students participate in a LEAPers Group they choose, diving into an area that excites and inspires them. By selecting an area they are passionate about, students are empowered to direct their learning and discover new talents. These groups offer a unique opportunity for students to collaborate with peers from different year levels.

We believe that through LEAPers, every student has the opportunity to flourish, expanding their horizons and developing the skills and mindset of a lifelong, curious learner.

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Intellectual Domain

The Intellectual domain refers to natural abilities in processing, understanding, reasoning, and the transfer of learning.

Our school identifies and supports students with high potential through targeted enrichment, extension and extra-curricular opportunities such as the Premier's Spelling Bee, public speaking competitions, Tournament of Minds, Field of Mars, the Eureka program, MindQuest and more.

Find out more about how we develop high potential across the intellectual domain.

MindQuest

These weekend programs for High Potential and Gifted Primary Students are aimed at students performing at 2+ years above their age cohort and provide a range of high-interest short courses across different Key Learning Areas.

Field of Mars

These special programs have been developed to support and extend high potential, gifted and talented (HPGE) students. Each one-day workshop offers meaningful, challenging learning experiences that develop students’ intellectual, creative and social-emotional abilities.

Gateways Eureka program

The Eureka program provides an extension and enrichment opportunity for high ability students. The workshops are designed to meet the specific needs of gifted and talented students and cover topics both above and beyond the school curriculum. Students are carefully selected for the Eureka program through a nomination process led by their teachers. Educators identify students who demonstrate high academic potential, strong motivation, and a readiness for more challenging work. This ensures that the program effectively meets the needs of those who will benefit most from enrichment opportunities.

Tournament of Minds

Tournament of Minds is a dynamic problem-solving program designed for teams of students from both primary and secondary years. It aims to enhance the potential of young people by developing a wide range of skills, including creative enterprise, effective time management, and the discipline required to work collaboratively.

Throughout the program, students work together to tackle complex challenges that encourage innovative thinking and teamwork within a stimulating and competitive environment. Teams receive ongoing support and guidance from dedicated staff members at school, who help prepare them for the various tasks and competitions.

By engaging in Tournament of Minds, students build confidence and develop key skills that support both their academic and personal growth.

APSMO Maths Games and Maths Olympiad

These mathematics programs offer valuable enrichment opportunities for mainstream students in Years 3, 4, 5, and 6, focusing on the development of strong problem-solving skills. The programs encourage students to approach mathematical challenges with lateral and creative thinking. By exploring different strategies, students learn that there can be multiple methods to arrive at a solution, fostering flexibility and deeper understanding in their mathematical reasoning. This approach not only enhances their problem-solving abilities but also builds confidence and enthusiasm for mathematics.

Premier's Reading Challenge

The PRC is a statewide Challenge that encourages students to develop a love of reading for leisure and pleasure in students and enables them to experience quality literature. It is not a competition, but a challenge to encourage each student to read, to read more, and to read more widely.

Two of our students recently represented the school at the Premier’s Spelling Bee Regional Finals. Opportunities like the Spelling Bee extend learning beyond the classroom, building vocabulary, critical thinking and intellectual growth.

Our students showcased inspiring participation in the 2025 Metropolitan South and Metropolitan South and West Public Speaking Competition. They showed remarkable dedication by preparing their speeches thoughtfully at home, creating engaging and well-crafted presentations. During the event, students demonstrated impressive confidence and composure in delivering impromptu speeches. Stage 2 students spoke passionately on the theme of courage, while Stage 3 students thoughtfully explored the more complex topic of fear. Their quick thinking and clear expression during these spontaneous speeches were truly commendable. We celebrate all our students for their outstanding effort, resilience, and eloquence. Their confidence and passionate communication skills reflect their hard work and determination.

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Creative Domain

The Creative domain refers to natural abilities in imagination, invention and originality.

Our school nurtures creativity by providing targeted programs and opportunities such as music ensembles, writing competitions, and participation in events like the Festival of Instrumental Music and the Cantabile Music Festival. Students are encouraged to explore different creative outlets, develop their artistic skills, and collaborate on projects that inspire innovation and self-expression.

Through these experiences, students are encouraged to take initiative and confidently express what makes them unique. They learn to think innovatively, adapt their ideas, and appreciate diverse perspectives, which not only enhances their creative growth but also contributes to a vibrant and dynamic school community. Active engagement in these creative programs helps students build essential skills such as critical thinking, communication, and self-expression, preparing them for lifelong creativity and innovation.

Find out more about how we develop high potential across the creative domain.

Australian School Band and Orchestra Festival

Our concert band participated in the Australian School Band and Orchestra Festival this year. The festival hosts school wind, brass, and big bands, string ensembles and orchestras from across the planet and is one of the most significant music education events in Australia. With over 10,000 students performing at the event each year, this is a fantastic opportunity for our students to develop their musical skills, gain performance experience, and connect with a wider community of young musicians.

Inner West Music Festival

Our training and concert band have joined jazz bands and rock bands, chamber groups and orchestras from schools in Sydney's Inner West at the Inner West Music Festival. This event offered students a valuable opportunity to showcase their talents, collaborate with fellow young musicians, and celebrate the vibrant local music community.

Music Programs

Our school offers multiple music programs to cater to all interests and ability levels. Our programs include:

Training band
Concert band
Stage band
Junior choir
Senior choir
Beginner strings
Stringtime Players
Beginner recorders
Recorder consort
Individual music tutoring

Primarily Fun Workshops and Performances

This free initiative is a great opportunity for young musicians to be mentored by Year 7 and 8 Instrumental Music Program students. In a fun and supportive environment, participants learn new repertoire and build friendships, fostering both musical growth and social connection.

Year 5 and 6 Boys Vocal Program

Students learn vocal techniques, ensemble singing, and get to record a track and work with sound engineers at Track Down Studios in Moore Park. This hands-on experience enhances their musical learning and introduces them to the professional recording environment.

Our Stage 3 students collaborated on a short film with the RPA Hospital School for the Film By Festival. The project drew on the creative domain of HPGE through stop motion, live action and time lapse filming, while also deepening students’ sense of belonging and connection across schools.

Each year, students from our Senior Choir proudly take part in the Cantabile Music Festival held at the Sydney Opera House. This festival celebrates the musical achievements and talents of over 1,000 students from primary and secondary public schools across NSW. The event features a Combined Primary School choir made up of 600 children, showcasing their impressive choral skills. In addition, many primary and secondary students perform as part of the orchestra, stage bands, ensembles, or as accompanists, highlighting the wide range of musical abilities within the festival. Participating in Cantabile offers our students a valuable opportunity to develop their musicianship and be part of a large, inspiring musical community.

Our outstanding music program gives students in our recorder and string ensembles the chance to take part in the Festival of Instrumental Music each year. This prestigious event brings together students from across NSW to perform in combined recorder and string groups on the stage of the Sydney Opera House, providing a unique opportunity to showcase their musical talents and experience the joy of making music together.

We encourage and celebrate our students' creativity both in school and in the community. One of our students recently won the Cobden Hayson SOLD sticker competition for his age group. He put so much of his soul and creativity into his artwork to showcase his pride and joy of living in this beautiful city. Winning this competition is a wonderful achievement, highlighting how our students’ creative talents can be celebrated and shared beyond the school gates. It also inspires other students to put their own creativity into action and take pride in their unique voices and perspectives. Through opportunities like this, we empower students to engage confidently with both their local community and the broader world.

One of our incredible music students was offered a place on the Symphonic Wind Orchestra and Sinfonia tour. Opportunities like this allow our students to gain real world experience as performers, develop their creativity, communication and collaboration skills and build connections with other students across NSW.

Our students consistently demonstrate their creativity and talent. Recently, one of our Year 1 students took part in the Steinway and Sons National online piano competition. She delivered a remarkable performance that was both mature and controlled, showcasing her strong focus and dedication. Moments like these highlight the passion and discipline our students bring to their learning.

Our school music program provides many exciting opportunities for students to develop their talents. Recently, one of our Stage 2 students competed in the NSW State Finals of the Oz Schools Instrumental Championships in the Junior Primary Drums category. Experiences like this allow students to challenge themselves, grow their skills and gain confidence as young musicians.

Our students proudly represent Forest Lodge at Schools Spectacular, an iconic performing arts event that celebrates the talents, diversity and creativity of students from public schools across NSW. This exciting event provides a unique opportunity for our students to showcase their skills on a big stage, connect with peers from around the state, and be part of a vibrant and inspiring celebration of creativity and expression.

Physical Domain

The Physical domain refers to natural abilities in muscular movement and motor control.

At our school, we support and extend students’ physical talents through targeted programs, enrichment opportunities and extra-curricular activities. These include participation in representative sport teams, Athletics, Cross Country and Swimming Carnivals, PSSA competitions in sports such as AFL, hockey and swimming, and specialised clinics and workshops.

Through these activities, students learn and practice different movement skills and how to use them in various situations. They also work on solving challenges related to movement and combining skills to create and perform physical sequences. By being involved in physical activities, students understand how staying active is good for their health and wellbeing. These opportunities encourage students to improve their skills, challenge themselves, and develop healthy, active lifestyles.

Find out more about how we develop high potential across the physical domain.

Balmain PSSA sports teams

Our students, talented in the physical domain, often have the opportunity to represent our school in Balmain PSSA sporting teams. Our students' recent achievements include representing our school in the Balmain PPSA soccer, football, AFL and hockey teams. The Representative School Sport Pathway and PSSA events enable our students to trial and compete in sports at regional, state and national levels, fostering discipline, commitment and collaboration.

Our students are constantly working to reach their full potential. Recently, one of our students took part in the Sydney East PSSA hockey trials, proudly representing both Forest Lodge and the Balmain PSSA. Excelling in sport like this takes grit, focus and dedication—qualities we nurture and support in every student at our school.

Many of our students demonstrate exceptional talent in the physical domain. Recently, several were selected for the Balmain PSSA AFL team, proudly representing our local area as they competed alongside peers from other schools. Opportunities like this promote physical skill development, teamwork and community connection.

Each year, we have students successfully qualify for the Balmain PSSA Swimming Carnival, representing our school as they compete with peers from local schools. Events like this extend learning beyond the classroom, fostering teamwork, sportsmanship and personal achievement.

One of our students proudly represented Forest Lodge at the Sydney East Regional Cross Country carnival. Cross country running challenges stamina, focus and resilience—qualities that are nurtured and celebrated within our school community.

Our students proudly participate in the Balmain PSSA Cross Country carnival each year, representing Forest Lodge in a competitive event that brings together talented runners from schools across the local area. This sport builds endurance, concentration and determination, encouraging students to push through physical and mental challenges to reach the finish line. At Forest Lodge, we actively support and celebrate the development of these qualities, recognising how they contribute to both sporting success and overall personal growth.

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The Social-Emotional domain refers to natural abilities in self-management and relating to and interacting with others.

Our school fosters social-emotional development through targeted programs and opportunities such as student representative council, wellbeing workshops, and leadership roles. Students engage in activities that promote teamwork, conflict resolution, and community involvement, helping them to develop strong interpersonal skills and a positive sense of self.

Students are encouraged to participate actively in these programs to develop essential life skills such as empathy and resilience. They learn to communicate their thoughts and feelings clearly and respectfully, to work effectively in teams, and to contribute positively to the school community.

All our students, including high potential and gifted students, are encouraged to take on leadership roles through student representative council leadership and student leader roles. Our leaders are given opportunities to develop their leadership skills by attending workshops, hosting important guests, attending the Dream and Lead conference and designing and implementing positive, school-wide change.

Find out more about how we develop high potential across the social-emotional domain.

Young Change Makers

One of our students was among 1170 young changemakers who contributed to making over 6500 meals, breakfast boxes, snack packs, and care packs for vulnerable communities across Sydney. Their kindness, leadership, and willingness to serve truly embody the values of generosity and community spirit.

SRC Anti-Racism workshop

In the weeks leading up to the International Day of the Elimination of Racism and Discrimination, our student leaders and SRC collaborated to create The Forest Lodge Pledge Against Racism. Students focused on understanding the definitions of racism and discrimination, then considered questions such as:

How can we stand up against racism if it occurs at school?
What can we do to ensure everyone feels safe and included, regardless of their background or appearance?
How can we respond to hurtful comments based on race or culture?
How might we help our peers understand why racism is wrong and encourage kindness and fairness?

This activity helped students generate meaningful ideas that informed the creation of the oath, fostering a culture of respect and inclusion across the school community.

Our Aboriginal students and student leaders collaborated on a K–2 Acknowledgement of Country for our Infants classes. The project celebrated creativity and leadership while strengthening respect and connection across our school community.

The Forest Lodge Environmental Activists (FLEA) group is a student-led initiative dedicated to exploring and promoting sustainability and environmental awareness within our school community. Projects like these encourage students to take an active role in caring for the environment while developing leadership, teamwork and critical thinking skills.

Our student leaders and SRC participated in a 4C's workshop. In the workshop, students discussed the challenges faced by Forest Lodge students and the qualities that define who we are, including kindness, creativity, perseverance, and respect. Through this process, students developed a deeper understanding of what it means to be part of the Forest Lodge community. The workshop fostered reflection on both the obstacles they face and the strengths they bring, helping to build a stronger sense of connection and pride among participants.

Our students took part in a tree planting activity to celebrate World Environment Day. This event provided a hands-on opportunity to contribute to a greener community environment, fostering a sense of responsibility for nature and encouraging environmental stewardship. Activities like this help build an appreciation for sustainability and inspire students to take positive action in their community.

Our student leaders attend the Dream and Lead Conference each year. Dream and Lead is a one day event designed to support primary students in leadership opportunities. Through the day, students are supported and encouraged to develop their problem-solving skills and recognise the change that they can make as leaders of their school community.

Our Rainbow Club is dedicated to supporting and celebrating LGBTQIA+ diversity and inclusion at our school. The club organises events like this 'Wear it Rainbow' day to promote a positive school culture where every student feels valued and included.

Our student leaders recently had the privilege of welcoming Tanya Plibersek to our school, guiding her on a tour of our facilities and sharing insights about our school values and programs. Throughout the visit, the leaders confidently explained how our community fosters learning, wellbeing, and personal growth. Their enthusiasm and knowledge highlighted the strong commitment our students have to making Forest Lodge a supportive and vibrant place to learn.

Recently, the student leadership team, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, and the SRC participated in a workshop about First Nations cultures. Led by Aunty Calita and Aunty Karen, who share First Nations knowledge across Sydney, the workshop deepened students’ understanding of the significance of "Country"—encompassing land, wildlife, waters, air, sky, sea, and earth.

Students explored a range of artefacts and traditional tools, enriching their connection to Indigenous history and culture, then collaborated to draft sections of a new school Acknowledgement of Country. This workshop is one example of how our school fosters a deep respect and appreciation for First Nations heritage within our students.

Students participated in a Yarning Circle workshop as the first step in planning the new playground. Through this experience, they explored creative ideas such as Yarning Circles for community gathering, cubbies, water play areas, walking paths, safer playground equipment, and carvings of local totem animals like the Rainbow Lorikeet to celebrate Indigenous culture. This project supports learning beyond the classroom by fostering creativity, cultural connection, and a strong sense of community.