Nurturing Brilliance Across Our Diocese
“Gifted learners deserve more than just harder work – they deserve opportunities to think deeply, create boldly, and connect meaningfully”
In the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle, we have a unique ability to nurture excellence while staying true to our Catholic mission – serving the head, heart, and hands of every student. Guided by faith and hope for the future, we strive to ensure that all learners have the opportunity to flourish, regardless of background or circumstance.
Through programs like the High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) Virtual Academy, we not only challenge students academically but also empower them to explore issues of social justice and inequity, encouraging them to use their gifts in service of others. This is how we live our mission: by fostering deep learning, compassion, and leadership in the young people who will shape tomorrow.
What is the HPGE Virtual Academy?
The High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) Virtual Academy is an online learning community for students from Years 5 to 8 who have demonstrated high abilities across intellectual, creative, or social domains. The program is part of our whole-of-system approach to ensuring equity and excellence for every child.
- 57 schools across the diocese are involved
- Tailored, high-level learning experiences designed to extend ability, foster creativity, and build real-world skills
These units go far beyond traditional lessons. They encourage students to solve complex problems, collaborate with peers across the Diocese, and work with mentors and industry partners, all while developing independence and confidence.
Who is it for?
High Potential and Giftedness appears in many forms. The Virtual Academy supports:
- Students who need greater challenge and extension
- Underachieving students whose abilities aren’t reflected in current results
- Twice-exceptional learners (gifted and with a disability)
- Students from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander backgrounds
- Culturally and linguistically diverse learners
- Students from low socio-economic contexts
How does it work?
The Virtual Academy is guided by world-class research and frameworks:
- Gagné’s Differentiated Model of Giftedness and Talent (DMGT) – recognising that giftedness must be developed into talent through the right opportunities.
- Self-Determination Theory (SDT) – prioritising autonomy, competence, and connection in learning.
What makes it different?
The Virtual Academy stands apart through its personalised learning plans, co-designed with students and their families to ensure every learner’s unique strengths are nurtured. Students engage in flexible online learning, with both live and on-demand options, and explore inquiry and project-based units grounded in real-world contexts. Their achievements are captured in digital portfolios that showcase learning and growth over time, while mentoring and partnerships with universities and industry open doors to future pathways and authentic opportunities.
Why does it matter?
When high potential and gifted learners are challenged, recognised, and supported, they:
- Stay engaged and motivated
- Develop confidence and independence
- Learn at a pace and depth that suits their abilities
“Without these opportunities, high potential and gifted learners may feel bored, frustrated, or unseen. The Virtual Academy ensures every high-potential student has the chance to thrive”
In Short: Equity, Excellence, and Endless Possibility
The High Potential and Gifted Education Virtual Academy is more than an academic program. It’s a commitment – to every learner with extraordinary ability that they will be nurtured, extended, and inspired.
“We’re not just teaching for today. We’re preparing leaders, innovators, and creators for tomorrow”
We do this as part of our greater mission: forming young people who think deeply, act justly, and live with faith, hope, and love. By developing their gifts in service of others, we help them grow not only as scholars but as compassionate leaders who will make a difference in their communities and in the world.
Learn more about High Potential and Gifted Education through the Gifted Education Mentor (GEM) in your school. Alternatively, feel free to contact the Leader of High Potential and Gifted Education.
