High Performing Students Program

A joint initiative of the University of Newcastle and NSW Department of Education.

High performing studentsThe High Performing Students Program gives exceptional high school students the opportunity to get a 'taste' of tertiary education by undertaking first year university courses while still at school.

The University of Newcastle program provides students with opportunities to fulfil their academic potential, help with career decisions, and can lead to credit for university studies.

Now running for over ten years, the program is delivered at Merewether High School but is open to students from all schools in the region. 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 High Performing Students Program benefit from:

  • 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 Canvas – are a feature of all courses, and approaches to teaching and learning are innovative and sensitive to diverse student needs.

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 NSW Department of Education policy.

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

Am I eligible?

There are no age restrictions for enrolment but students must display a suitable level of maturity and commitment. The cost for each course is $400.

The University of Newcastle reserves the right to withdraw courses from the High Performing Students Program if there is insufficient interest.

Semester one

Globalisation and International Management (BUSN1001)

This course analyses the challenges and opportunities presented by the globalisation of markets and production for managers in both domestic and multinational companies (MNCs). The cultural, political, economic and technological drivers and implications of Globalisation will be presented providing an introduction to basic concepts in global economics and international business. While a key purpose of the course will be to understand how managers design effective strategic business decisions cognizant of cultural, political and economic difference internationally, a critique of the basic paradigm of profit maximising behaviour by MNCs will also be presented through a discussion of strategising with corporate social responsibility.

Object Oriented Programming (SENG1110)

This course is an introduction to object-oriented programming language. The course introduces the fundamentals of analysing a problem and then implementing a solution as a computer software system using an object oriented language. Students learn about problem solving strategies, top-down program development and programming style. The course provides a basic introduction to data abstraction and object-oriented analysis and design. Emphasis is placed on programming and testing.

Foundations of Health and Disease (HUBS1417)

This course gives an integrated introduction to human biosciences: the anatomy and physiology of the major organ systems will be explored together with the pathophysiology of disease. Students will gain exposure to potential future health careers including Medical Radiation Science, Nutrition and Dietetics, Occupational Therapy, Pharmacy, Nursing and Biomedical Research. The course will be taught in a blended mode that includes face to face instruction in lectures and interactive tutorials/practical exercises, in conjunction with on-line teaching and interaction. The learning outcomes of the course will be assessed in reflective exercises, online mini tests and an end of term exam.

Discrete Mathematics (MATH1510)

Discrete mathematics is the study of mathematical structures that are discrete, separated or distinct; in contrast with calculus which deals with continuous change. It is an important area of pure and applied mathematics, as well as providing the mathematical basis for modern computation. Discrete Mathematics is important in the sciences, where it has increasing application in many areas, an exemplar of which is the understanding of DNA sequences in molecular biology. The Discrete Mathematics course introduces students to the basic concepts of discrete mathematics, covering topics such as set theory, logic, enumeration, probability, recurrence relations, and graph theory. The course provides important background for students pursuing a Bachelor of Mathematics degree. It covers much of the mathematics essential for students majoring in Computer Science or Software Engineering and is a compulsory course in those degree programs.

Semester two

Courses in the High Performing Students Program are offered in semester one only.

  1. Complete an Expression of Interest Form.
  2. Submit to Merewether High School: your Expression of Interest form, your last school report, a signed letter from your school Principal confirming that your work is of a high calibre and all required documentation set out in the Expression of Interest form.
  3. Attend an interview at Merewether High School. The interview is formal, and you are required to wear your school uniform. Sample interview questions might include:
    • Why are you interested in this course?
    • What career expectations do you have?
    • How will you manage the extra time this course requires and maintain the high standards for the School Certificate or the Higher School Certificate?
  4. Present a portfolio or CV representing your learning and interests outside school, and any relevant work experience such as your School to Work logbook.
  5. You will be notified of the outcome of your Expression of Interest by a Merewether High School representative and if selected, the class details.
  6. If selected, you will be asked by your lecturer at your first class to complete the University's non-award program application. This enables the University to set up your access to e-learning technologies and libraries.
Expression of Interest Forms are due by 3.30pm Monday 12 February 2024

Send your completed form to:

Merewether High School
High Performing Students Program
PO Box 3010
Hamilton NSW 2303
Email: merewether-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Or deliver your form to:

Merewether High School
Chatham Street
Broadmeadow