The OHS Pinnacle Program: Excellence in Arts, Leadership, Sport and Academics
Overview
The OHS Pinnacle Program is designed to provide in-zone high-achieving students with a pathway to academic and artistic excellence. This program will offer enriched learning experiences tailored to students who demonstrate high potential in intellectual, creative, and performing arts domains. The program aligns with the NSW Department of Education’s High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) Policy, ensuring that gifted students are supported through evidence-based practices that enhance their potential and academic success.
Rationale
The Pinnacle Program at Orange High School (OHS) aims to nurture students with exceptional abilities in academics, sports, leadership, and the arts by providing structured learning opportunities, mentorship, and an environment that fosters talent development. It is underpinned by the principles of the HPGE Policy, which states that schools must identify and support high-potential students to ensure they reach their full capability.
Through differentiated learning experiences, the program will:
● Engage high-potential learners in intellectual and creative pursuits.
● Provide enrichment and acceleration opportunities.
● Support students through targeted teaching strategies that align with HPGE best practices.
● Cultivate critical and creative thinking, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
Selection Criteria and Application Process
Students will be selected based on their academic performance, artistic talent, and demonstrated commitment to learning. The selection process includes:
- Application form completed by Parent/carer and student:
- Followed by Academic Assessment: A standardised test
- Supporting Document Submission (Arts, Leadership and Sports): A portfolio showcasing their sporting, creative or performing arts talent.
Program Structure
Selected students will engage in:
● Extension class placement for Years 7 and 8 and specific classes for development.
● Participation in competitions, exhibitions, and academic challenges.
Timeline and Key Dates (Aligned with NSW DOE 2026 Enrolment Process)
| Stage | Date | Details |
| Program Launch | Term 1, 2025 (March) | Information emailed to all partner schools and for prospective students & families |
| Applications Open | April 2025 | Application link available on the OHS website and in infor letter. |
| Applications Close | May 1st 2025 | Submission applications and also of creative and performing arts portfolios or sporting applications. |
| Academic Testing (ACER AGAT) | May / June 2025 | Selected students sit for the entrance test. |
| Shortlisting | June 2025 | Panel shortlists candidates. |
| Offers Released | July 2025 | Successful students receive program acceptance letters, and unsuccessful students go on a waitlist if appropriate. |
Links to NSW DOE HPGE Policy
The OHS Pinnacle Program aligns with the NSW Department of Education High Potential and Gifted Education Policy by:
● Identifying high-potential students using a combination of testing, nominations, and portfolio review.
● Providing differentiated learning to extend and challenge students.
● Encouraging excellence in both intellectual and artistic domains.
● Ensuring equitable access to opportunities for diverse high-potential learners.
Conclusion
The OHS Pinnacle Program will provide a rigorous and supportive learning environment for in-zone high-achieving students in academics, sports, leadership and the arts. By fostering excellence through targeted learning strategies and enrichment opportunities, the program will enable students to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to the school community.
We look forward to identifying and nurturing the next generation of high-potential learners at Orange High School.
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