Acceleration is possible under the NSW Board of Studies guidelines (see ACE manual) and is widespread across the state of New South Wales. Acceleration can occur in any year, but at all times occurs in accordance with the Board of Studies guidelines and current DET policy statements.
At St Clair High School, students possessing superior skills, keen interest, and abilities needing further challenge may be considered for acceleration. The only goal is to better cater for the needs, interests and abilities of students who are gifted and/ or talented within our existing curriculum arrangement. This may involve students completing courses for the School Certificate, Preliminary Certificate or Higher School Certificate in advance of their chronological cohort. It may also raise the prospect of students undertaking Distinction courses for their Higher School Certificate.
Where it is felt that the acceleration of some students is necessary and sensible, teachers and Head Teachers should approach the Gifted and Talented Team/ Co-ordinator to explore this possibility. It is critical that the implications of acceleration are closely explored from a school and systems viewpoint before any discussion with students or parents. Rumour, ignorance and confusion must not surround acceleration. Planning, monitoring and safety net requirements need explicit explanation.
As part of any such decision, liaison with parents, the student, the counsellor (especially in relation to the social implications of such a move), the careers adviser and faculty staff is vital. A faculty mentor (who can serve as a point of reference and information) is essential to support any such move.
St. Clair High Schools Gifted and Talented Case Study
DET Policy and implementation strategies for the education of gifted and talented students
DET Policy and implementation strategies /Support package / Parent Information