High potential and gifted education

In our classrooms

ENGLISH

Debating & Public Speaking (Junior, Senior, Regional, State, Sutherland Shire)
Students develop confidence, critical thinking and communication skills through school, regional and state debating and public speaking competitions. They learn to articulate ideas clearly, respond to challenges on the spot, and collaborate in supportive but competitive environments.
Domain: Intellectual, Social-Emotional

English Competition (ICAS)
Students take part in the ICAS competition run by the University of New South Wales, which challenges them with advanced reading comprehension, language analysis and interpretation tasks. Detailed diagnostic feedback allows students and teachers to target strengths and areas for growth.
Domain: Intellectual

Creative Writing Competitions
Students are encouraged to submit work to a variety of writing competitions, showcasing imagination, style and originality. This provides authentic audiences for their writing, as well as recognition at local and national levels.
Domain: Intellectual, Creative

Project-Based Learning (PBL)
Extension English classes in Years 7–9 engage in PBL units that connect curriculum learning to real-world issues. Students collaborate to research, problem-solve and present solutions, building skills in communication, critical thinking and creativity.
Domain: Intellectual, Creative, Social-Emotional

Differentiation & Extension Strategies
Through differentiated tasks, advanced reading, and critical analysis, students are encouraged to pursue complex interpretations and higher-order thinking in both classwork and assessment.
Domain: Intellectual

Extension English provides Cronulla High School students potential students with the opportunity to engage in advanced literary concepts beyond the core English curriculum. Through critical analysis, creative composition, and the exploration of complex texts, students develop sophisticated reasoning, nuanced communication skills, and higher-order thinking. This course challenges learners to extend their intellectual and creative capacities, preparing them for the HSC, tertiary study, and careers that require advanced analytical and expressive skills.

Domain: Intellectual

MATHEMATICS

Maths in Motion
This program introduces applied mathematics in engineering and design contexts, encouraging students to think beyond traditional classroom approaches. Students apply their learning to authentic challenges that link theory to practice.
Domain: Intellectual, Creative

Differentiated Learning Projects
Students are given open-ended tasks that allow for acceleration and extension in mathematics, ensuring higher-order students remain challenged while building resilience and persistence.
Domain: Intellectual

Extension Mathematics (Preliminary and HSC)
Extension Mathematics provides high potential students with the opportunity to engage in advanced mathematical concepts beyond the core curriculum. Through rigorous problem-solving, abstract reasoning and the application of sophisticated techniques, students develop resilience, logical precision and higher-order thinking. This course challenges learners to extend their intellectual capacity and prepares them for tertiary study and careers requiring advanced quantitative skills.
Domain: Intellectual

SCIENCE & STEM

Big Science Competition / International Science Competition
This national and international competition tests students’ scientific knowledge, critical thinking and problem-solving in real-world contexts. Students benchmark themselves against peers and are recognised for achievement.
Domain: Intellectual

Girls in STEM

Provides high potential female students with the opportunity to engage in advanced science, technology, engineering, and mathematics concepts through hands-on experiences and mentorship with ANSTO. Students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills while exploring real-world applications of STEM in innovative and collaborative environments. This program challenges learners to extend their intellectual capacity, build confidence in STEM fields, and prepares them for tertiary study and careers requiring advanced scientific and technological expertise.

Domain: Intellectual

Year 9 STEM Elective

Provides high potential students with the opportunity to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through hands-on projects, inquiry-based learning, and real-world problem solving. Students develop critical thinking, creativity, and analytical skills while engaging in collaborative and innovative challenges. This course encourages learners to extend their intellectual curiosity, deepen their understanding of STEM concepts, and build the skills necessary for future academic and career pathways in advanced scientific and technological fields.

Domain: Intellectual

Science in the City
Run in partnership with the Australian Museum and University of Sydney, this National Science Week program immerses students in hands-on science workshops and lectures, inspiring interest in scientific discovery.
Domain: Intellectual, Creative

Shire Inter-Schools Forensic Challenge / Forensic Day Challenge
Year 9 students apply STEM knowledge to solve forensic scenarios against other local schools. They gain hands-on experience with DNA analysis, fingerprinting and problem-solving in authentic contexts.
Domain: Intellectual, Creative

STEM Laboratory Projects & Destination Imagination
Students collaborate on project-based STEM challenges that require innovation, critical thinking and teamwork to solve authentic real-world problems.
Domain: Intellectual, Creative, Social-Emotional

Bridge Building & Engineering Challenge
Students design and test engineering structures, applying STEM skills in competitive formats to showcase creativity and applied knowledge.
Domain: Intellectual, Creative

UTS Forensic Science Moot Court & Wollongong Science Fair
Students experience university-style science research and forensic application, engaging with experts and authentic learning opportunities.
Domain: Intellectual, Social-Emotional

HSIE

National History Challenge / Australian History Competition
These research and knowledge-based competitions position students as historians, encouraging inquiry, evidence-based argument and original interpretation.
Domain: Intellectual

Australian Geography Competition
Students demonstrate their geographical knowledge and analytical skills in this national competition, benchmarking against peers across the country.
Domain: Intellectual

Mock Trial Program
Students simulate real legal cases, assuming roles such as barristers, solicitors and witnesses. They develop advocacy, logical reasoning, and public speaking skills in authentic legal contexts.
Domain: Intellectual, Social-Emotional

Model UN program

Provides high potential students with the opportunity to engage in global issues, international relations, and social justice through research, debate, and collaborative problem-solving. Students develop critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and effective communication skills while exploring complex global challenges from multiple perspectives. This course encourages learners to extend their intellectual and ethical capacities, fostering informed, reflective, and proactive global citizens prepared for tertiary study and leadership roles.

Domain: Intellectual, Social-Emotional

Parliamentary Debating / Project UN
Students participate in forums simulating parliamentary and UN debates, learning about democracy, civics and persuasive argumentation while engaging with global issues.
Domain: Intellectual, Social-Emotional

Fieldwork Research Action Plan
Students collaborate on real-world geographical issues within Sydney, developing skills in data collection, teamwork and civic responsibility.
Domain: Intellectual, Social-Emotional

Australian Sharemarket Game
Students manage a simulated $50,000 share portfolio, learning financial literacy, critical thinking and investment strategies.
Domain: Intellectual, Social-Emotional

HSIE Enrichment Projects
Faculties implement differentiated extension tasks across history, geography, commerce and legal studies, encouraging students to apply higher-order thinking in authentic projects.
Domain: Intellectual

Cross Faculty Project Based Learning (PBL)

Provides high potential students with the opportunity to engage in interdisciplinary inquiry, combining English and HSIE to explore real-world problems through research, critical analysis, and creative solutions. Students develop higher-order thinking, collaboration, and communication skills while applying knowledge across multiple subject areas. This program challenges learners to extend their intellectual curiosity and problem-solving abilities, preparing them for complex academic tasks, tertiary study, and future leadership roles.

Domain: Intellectual, Social-Emotional

TAS

Catering & Hospitality Projects / Presentation Day Catering
Students design and deliver catering for school and community events, developing teamwork, leadership and time management skills.
Domain: Intellectual, Social-Emotional

Coffee Cart & Barista Training
Students complete barista certification and operate the school’s coffee cart, building employability and entrepreneurial skills while contributing to school culture.
Domain: Intellectual, Social-Emotional

F1 in Schools (State Representative)
This global STEM competition challenges students to design, test and race miniature Formula 1 cars. They gain skills in engineering, marketing, project management and teamwork.
Domain: Intellectual, Creative, Social-Emotional

Design & Engineering Extension Projects
Students undertake complex, open-ended design projects, developing innovation, problem-solving and leadership.
Domain: Intellectual, Creative

Work Placement Opportunities & Industry Links
Senior TAS students gain industry experience through hospitality, construction and engineering work placements, strengthening real-world skills.
Domain: Intellectual, Physical, Social-Emotional

COMPUTING

Multimedia Projects (Adobe, Unity, Film Editing)
Students engage in design, animation and video production using Adobe Creative Cloud, with opportunities to publish and showcase their work.
Domain: Intellectual, Creative

Digital Media Support for Events
Students contribute video, photography and digital media for school events, building technical expertise and teamwork skills.
Domain: Creative, Social-Emotional

LANGUAGES (Japanese)

Japan Study Tour
Through Cronulla HS’s exchange program with Nirasaki High School, students experience full cultural immersion in Japan, building independence, resilience and authentic language skills.
Domain: Intellectual, Social-Emotional

Nihongo Tanken Centre Immersion Days
Students participate in immersion days at this Japanese language and culture centre, developing fluency and cultural understanding in authentic contexts.
Domain: Intellectual, Creative

Extension Speaking Workshops
Selected students collaborate with peers across schools to refine advanced oral communication skills in Japanese.
Domain: Intellectual, Social-Emotional

CAPA

Arts in the Dark
A whole-school creative showcase where students present works across music, dance, drama and visual arts in an evening festival. This event highlights creativity while building confidence through live performance and exhibition.
Domain: Creative, Social-Emotional

Boys Vocal Program
This initiative supports and celebrates male vocalists, providing tailored opportunities for ensemble singing, vocal development and performance. Students gain confidence while challenging stereotypes and showcasing talent.
Domain: Creative, Social-Emotional

CAPA Captain & Leadership Roles
Students are offered leadership opportunities as CAPA Captains or ensemble leaders, building organisational, communication and leadership skills while representing the faculty.
Domain: Social-Emotional, Creative

CAPA Enrichment Day
An intensive, cross-disciplinary day of workshops with professional artists and performers, offering students hands-on experiences that extend their creative capacity.
Domain: Creative, Intellectual

CAPA Showcase
Annual performance night that brings together ensembles across music, drama and dance to present work for the wider community. This strengthens collaboration and celebrates achievement in the arts.
Domain: Creative, Social-Emotional

CHS Concert Band, Drum Line, String Ensemble & Vocal Ensembles
Students join school ensembles that rehearse weekly, perform at community events and state programs, and participate in specialist tutorials. These opportunities refine technical skills and promote teamwork and commitment.
Domain: Creative, Social-Emotional

Dance Ensembles & Companies (Junior, Selective, Elite, Training, Regional)
Students audition to join specialist dance groups that rehearse regularly and perform at state, regional and national festivals. They gain advanced technical skill, discipline, creativity and resilience through performance.
Domain: Creative, Physical, Social-Emotional

Drama Ensembles & Companies
Students collaborate in performance ensembles, building improvisation and acting skills while working toward showcases at festivals and school events. They develop confidence and creative expression through teamwork.
Domain: Creative, Social-Emotional

High School Musical Production
A biennial large-scale production involving performers, musicians, set designers, stage crew and technical teams. Students gain cross-disciplinary skills while experiencing the process of mounting a professional-style production.
Domain: Creative, Social-Emotional

Technical Crews (HSC Dance, Drama, Music)
Students take responsibility for lighting, sound and backstage management in HSC performances and major productions. They develop technical expertise and problem-solving skills under real performance pressure.
Domain: Creative, Intellectual, Social-Emotional

Festivals & State Programs (In the Spotlight, Southern Stars, Schools Spectacular, Regional/State Festivals, Sydney Dance Festivals)
Students represent Cronulla HS at prestigious arts festivals, performing alongside peers from across the state. These opportunities extend their skills, provide elite experiences and connect them with industry professionals.
Domain: Creative, Social-Emotional

Visual Arts Club
Weekly lunch-time workshops allow students to refine artistic skills in drawing, painting, sculpture and digital media. This program fosters creativity and provides mentoring opportunities among peers.
Domain: Creative, Intellectual

Photography Club & Film Crew
Students experiment with photography and film production, capturing school events and exhibitions. They develop both creative and technical expertise, while supporting school promotion.
Domain: Creative, Social-Emotional

International CAPA Tour
Select students participate in international tours to perform, attend workshops and engage with world-class artists. Previous destinations included New York and Los Angeles, providing life-changing experiences.
Domain: Creative, Social-Emotional

Film Festival Competition
Students are invited to create and submit original short films for entry into local and state film festivals. This initiative challenges students to develop skills in storytelling, scriptwriting, cinematography, editing and production while working both independently and collaboratively. Participation extends students’ creativity and technical expertise, while providing authentic audiences and recognition for their work.
Domain: Creative, Intellectual, Social-Emotional

PDHPE

Premier’s Sporting Challenge
Students participate in this state-wide initiative to increase physical activity and develop lifelong healthy habits.
Domain: Physical, Social-Emotional

PSC Sport Leadership Program
Selected students train in coaching and officiating, working with local primary schools and community organisations.
Domain: Physical, Social-Emotional

SCUBA Diving (PADI Open Water)
Year 10 students achieve international SCUBA certification, building resilience, trust and problem-solving under pressure.
Domain: Physical, Social-Emotional

Duke of Edinburgh Award (Bronze, Silver, Gold)
Students across Years 9–12 engage in a progressive, internationally recognised program that builds independence, service, physical challenge and leadership. Each level increases in commitment and achievement.
Domain: Physical, Social-Emotional, Intellectual

Representative & Knockout Sport Pathways (Targeted Rugby League Program, Rugby Excellence, AFL, Netball, Cricket, Swimming, Athletics, Snowsports, Surfing, Triathlon, etc.)
Students represent CHS in a wide range of sporting pathways from local carnivals to national championships. Programs include targeted elite rugby league, knockout competitions across multiple sports, and specialised training for surfing and snow sports.
Domain: Physical, Social-Emotional

Across our school

Tournament of Minds
Teams solve authentic open-ended challenges requiring creativity, teamwork and problem-solving across disciplines.
Domain: Intellectual, Creative, Social-Emotional

EDGE Award Ceremony & Enrichment Days / Expanding Horizons
Celebrating students who have excelled in enrichment programs, these events recognise achievement and inspire peers. Enrichment days encourage curiosity, independence and passion-driven learning.
Domain: Intellectual, Social-Emotional

Student Leadership Programs (SRC, Prefects, Peer Leaders, White Ribbon Team, Environment Council, Fundraising)
Students lead school initiatives, campaigns and events that promote civic responsibility, social justice and student voice. These programs develop leadership, resilience and collaboration.
Domain: Social-Emotional

Media & Film Crew
Students record, edit and share school events through digital media, gaining skills in storytelling and digital communication.
Domain: Creative, Social-Emotional

Targeted Surfing Program (TSP)
Talented athletes receive specialised training in surfing, including strength, conditioning and mental performance, preparing them for competitive pathways.
Domain: Physical, Social-Emotional

Rugby League Excellence Program

Introduced in 2024, provides high potential students with the opportunity to combine academic studies with specialised coaching in all aspects of Rugby League. Beyond developing athletic skills, the program focuses on building character, resilience, and holistic growth, supporting students’ physical, intellectual, and social-emotional development. Through on- and off-field education, students are challenged to extend their HPGE potential, preparing them for long-term success in sport, study, and life.
Domains: Physical, Intellectual, Social-Emotional

HAAC HSC Program of Support

This includes lunchtime sessions, STAR sessions, and whole-year assembly presentations. These lunchtime sessions focus on topics such as goal setting, exam preparation, mindset and positive thinking, managing stress and anxiety, motivational support, note-taking, summarising key points, effective study spaces, NESA key verbs, nutrition, and sleep. A dedicated Google Classroom serves as an online support hub, where resources are posted, encouragement, communication, and guidance.

Domains: Intellectual, Social-Emotional

Assessment Differentiation

Greater Differentiation in Senior Assessment to Support HPGE – This includes work delivered by staff ensuring high-potential and gifted students receive appropriately challenging tasks.

Domains: Intellectual

Senior Homework Centre

Every Monday, our Senior Homework Centre operates for 1.5 hours after school. This initiative provides multiple benefits and supports senior students in several ways.

Domains: Intellectual

Holiday Master Classes

These sessions provide students with structured, high-impact learning opportunities during critical revision periods, particularly before trial exams in the winter holidays and again in the October holidays before the HSC. They allow students to consolidate key content, refine exam techniques, and receive targeted feedback from experienced teachers in a focused environment. The collaborative nature of these sessions encourages peer learning and helps students address gaps in their understanding.

Domains: Intellectual, Social – Emotional

Across NSW

TEDx at Cronulla High School

At Cronulla High School, we proudly host TEDx Youth events that give our students the chance to share their ideas, passions, and voices with the wider community. These events celebrate creativity, critical thinking, and leadership, while building student confidence in public speaking.

Our first TEDx event, TEDxCronullaHighSchoolYouth 2024, featured inspiring talks from students Amber Smith, Darcy Palmer, Izzy Ryan, Keira Hepburn, Olivia Colburt, Paige Coady, and keynote speaker Kal Glanznig. Topics ranged from the challenges of growing up and youth homelessness to the importance of history, swimming safety, and navigating the world of social media.

In 2025, our second TEDx event expanded on this momentum, with students such as Alicia Campbell, Angela Cantlon, Christopher Kypreos, CJ Lee, and Millie Sawyer delivering powerful talks on issues including social media, education reform, coding, bullying, and breaking misconceptions about ADHD and Autism.

Through TEDx, our students not only develop communication and leadership skills but also contribute to meaningful conversations that matter to their generation. These events reflect Cronulla High School’s commitment to empowering young people to shape the future with confidence, courage, and creativity.