Reservoir District S.C.

• We acknowledge that gifted and talented students have varying strengths and weaknesses in their skills. SEAL/High Achiever students work with a school-appointed mentor, who will assist the student in developing an Individualised Learning Plan, and who will offer the student support and guidance.
• We strongly believe the learning of a SEAL/High Achiever student extends beyond the traditional classroom. SEAL/High Achiever students participate in extra curricula activities (e.g. camps, competitions) and, as part of their studies, visit environments that enhance their learning. They interact with experts and advisors.
• Research has shown that gifted and talented students are best grouped together (Rogers, Karen B. Re-Forming Gifted Education and Gross, Macleod and Pretorius. Gifted Students in Secondary Schools).
• They require exciting and challenging learning experiences, with open ended tasks that involve multidisciplinary learning and high order thinking skills.
• Students work at a fast pace with minimal repetition and have high expectations of themselves.

• The SEAL/High Achievers learning environment focuses on the following:

• an exploration of issues, themes, questions.
• complexity, abstractedness and variety.
• a development of skills in organisation, research and communication.
• an emphasis on creativity, critical thinking and higher order thinking skills.

• Students with exceptional skills may be accelerated within particular subjects.
• Students in Year 9 will have the opportuntity to select VCE units to study the following year.
• Their programs could include studying an increased number of VCE units, enrolling in university extension programs, and applying for student exchanges.
• Educational philosophies that underpin the program are Bloom's Taxonomy and Art Costa's Habits of Mind.
• Habits of Mind Website
•  Bloom's Taxonomy Website

• The parents/guardians of SEAL students are encouraged to communicate with their child’s mentor and SEAL Co-ordinator. They are invited to attend information sessions which will provide them with knowledge to assist them with their child’s schooling and personal development.