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Aspire program

The Aspire program at Callaghan College Waratah Campus is designed to enable high potential and gifted students to thrive and fulfil their potential in a stimulating and supportive environment.

Learn more about the program and how to apply.

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About Aspire

The Aspire program at Callaghan College Waratah Campus is designed to enable high potential and gifted students to thrive and fulfil their potential in a stimulating and supportive environment.

The program is made up of two classes, each catering for up to 28 students who have a desire to extend themselves and a passion for learning.

Our Aspire teaching and learning programs follow the NSW Curriculum for Year 7 and 8 and provide high challenge learning activities tailored to students' needs, interests and abilities. The program is designed to encourage our students to:

Students in the program are supported by our Aspire Coordinator and a team of teachers and project mentors who ensure the individual learning and support needs of every student are catered for.

Our program responds to the NSW Department of Education's Gift and High Potential Student Policy.

For more information, please read our Aspire program brochure.

How to apply?

Complete the application form during term 1.

Applications for Year 7 ASPIRE 2027 are now closed.

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Three students reading at a desk in a library, with bookshelves nearby and two other students visible in the background.
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Frequently asked questions

When do applications open and close?
Applications open in Term 1 of each year, with applications closing by the end of the same term.
What is the selection process?

There is a 3-step selection process designed to identify students who are a good fit for the program.

Step 1: Complete the online application form.

Step 2: Attend an interview with Aspire staff and complete a short learner profile questionnaire. During the interview, applicants present and discuss a piece of work that highlights their strengths, skills and interests and passions.

Step 3: Aspire staff consult with applicants’ Year 6 teachers and Principals to learn more about them as learners.

You will be notified of the outcome of your application by the end of Term 2. If successful, you will be invited to attend a Brightsparks orientation workshop at Callaghan Waratah in Term 3.

Please ensure you accept your offer by the date specified on the offer letter, or your place may be offered to another student.

How long does the program last?

Aspire is a two year program. Student suitability for the program is reviewed at the end of Year 7, but generally students continue in their Aspire class until the end of Year 8.

From Year 9, students from the Aspire program are given first priority for our stage 5 (Year 9 and 10) enrichment and extension programs, including our Personal Pursuit Program elective and STEM program.

Do you accept late applications?
Late applications may be accepted at our Principal's discretion, but additional information will be requested from the applicant.
Do you accept applicants from outside the school's local enrolment area?
Applications for non-local enrolment are assessed on a case-by-case basis and maybe accepted at the discretion of our Principal.
What qualities do students need to thrive in the ASPIRE program?
  • Higher order thinking skills
  • High levels of self-motivation and curiosity
  • Positive attitude to school and learning
  • High levels of creativity
  • Well developed literacy and numeracy skills
  • Ability to work well in a team
  • Strong academic performance
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Have a question about our Aspire program?

Our friendly office team can help you get in touch.

Contact us

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Learning

Find out about our approach to learning and supporting students to progress.

HPGE

Learn more about Inspire – High potential and gifted education (HPGE).