Home > Learning > High Achievers Program

Overview

HAP brochure

Important dates

Who should apply

Registration form

Curriculum used

Selection process

Contacts

High Achievers Program Policy

What is the High Achievers Program?

At Berwick Secondary College we do our best to cater for all students in the community. Students who show high academic aptitude and have high academic aspirations are particularly suited to our High Achiever Program.

This program, which has been running successfully for 6 years, allows students to progress through school with their age peers whilst ensuring they remain challenged with work appropriate to their abilities. Emphasis is placed on higher level thinking, problem solving and academic achievement. Involvement in the performing arts and community projects are also features of this program.

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High Achievers Program Brochure

To view the HAP brochure please click here

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Important Dates

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What sort of student is suited to the High Achievers Program?

A "high achiever" must be prepared to take on the challenges offered, be willing to take risks, with more challenging goals and have full parental support in order to pursue independent learning at home.

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Registration Form

To download the registration form click here

For a map of where the selection examination will be held click here. The selection examination will be held on Saturday 28th March, 2009.

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What curriculum will High Achievers follow?

Our high achieving students follow the state curriculum guidelines, but work presented is more intellectually challenging, ensuring deeper understanding, with improved problem solving and thinking skills. Dealing with abstract concepts, improving creative and analytical skills and increased opportunities for informal learning through both local and international connections via the world wide web, will ensure engaged and successful participants in the program.

• Year 7 - the group will stay together for all classes
• Year 8 - they will remain together for core subjects of English, Maths, Science, History and Geography but will be in different groups for LOTE, Art, Technology and P.E.
• Year 9 - they will remain together for core subjects and encouraged to choose electives suited to their abilities
• Year 10 - they will be encouraged, if ready, to complete some Unit 1 or 2 VCE subjects
• Year 11 - they will be encouraged, if ready, to complete one VCE Unit 3 or 4 subject
• Year 12 - they will be encouraged, if ready, to undertake a University enhancement subject.

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Selection process

(Zoning restrictions do not apply)
First stage: Testing

Your Grade 6 child is required to sit a "Higher Ability Selection Test" written for the school and supplied by ACER. All tests are marked by ACER and a report and results are forwarded to both the parent and the school.

Second Stage: Interview
Your child with a parent/guardian may be required to come to the school to complete an interview with the Academic Enhancement Coordinator and the High Achiever co-ordinator. Parent and student interview to be conducted by invitation on 4th and 5th May, 2009. A second round of interviews may be conducted on the 6th and 8th May if the number of quality applicants exceed expectations.

Third Stage: Recommendation/Endorsement
Primary schools may be asked for a recommendation and endorsement.

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High Achievers Program Policy

To learn more about the program download the policy here.

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Who to contact

Mrs Pam Stratford
Berwick Secondary College
Manuka Road
Berwick, 3806
Phone: (03) 8768 1028
Fax: (03) 9707 2533

stratford.pam.e@edumail.vic.gov.au