Gifted and Talented Program

A joint initiative of the University of Newcastle and NSW Department of Education and Training Hunter Central Coast

The Gifted and Talented Program gives exceptional high school students the opportunity to get a head start on their university study.

The University of Newcastle program provides a pathway for exceptional students from all high schools to undertake first year university courses while attending school.

The program provides students with opportunities to fulfil their academic potential, help with career decisions, and can lead to credit for university studies. Now in its fifth year, the program is delivered at Merewether High School and Gosford High School but is open to students from all schools. The program aims to keep our best and brightest in the region, and to build opportunities for local growth.

Support for students

Students in the Gifted and Talented Program benefit from:

• Mentoring
• Individual Learning Plans
• Career discussion
• Industry visits

Students enrol in University of Newcastle courses and become university students. They have access to all University facilities, including the libraries (excluding restricted areas). Educational technologies, such as Blackboard, are a feature of all courses; approaches to teaching and learning are innovative and sensitive to diverse student needs.

Students have a mentor at each school to support their learning and, if necessary, to guide students in their interaction with the University.

Courses are typically 15 weeks long. In the case of science courses, students complete "wet labs" at the University of Newcastle during the school holiday period. Industry visits may also be included, and all excursions are conducted in line with Department of Education and Training policy.

When a course is completed, students are eligible for a credit transfer in a relevant university degree program.