Newman Selective Gifted Education Program

Newman Program at Our Lady Star of the Sea 

The Newman Selective Gifted Education Program is defined by parameters set by Sydney Catholic Schools. Our aim is to ensure that the program is developed and embedded at Our Lady Star of the Sea accordingly. We have been through a rigorous accreditation and re-accreditation process as of 2025 (Newman Verification) to ensure the Newman Selective Gifted Education program at Our Lady Star of the Sea is equitable and sustainable as well as aligning with the Gifted Education Standards Framework. 

Identification 

A balance of objective (ability & achievement tests) and subjective (teacher and parent nominations) measures are implemented to ensure the identification process is fair, valid and reliable. Our identification program is ongoing, defensible and systematic across the school. 

Newman in the Classroom

All members of our Our Lady Star of the Sea Miranda staff have successfully completed the Gifted Education Online course, ensuring that they are equipped with the necessary expertise to cater to the unique needs of each student. Our dedicated Class Teachers possess exceptional skills in differentiating instruction, enabling them to effectively tailor learning experiences to suit individual students. As a result, students benefit from enriched and extended learning opportunities within the classroom environment. Furthermore, our comprehensive programs in Religion, English, Mathematics, Science and Geography & History offer ample opportunities for both enrichment and extension, further enhancing the academic journey of our students.

Extension Programs

• Mathematics Enrichment - Miss Anna Yeum, Mrs Alison Frost and Mrs Daniela Serbati will work with Primary students who are exceeding in the area of Mathematics. 
• Newman Writing - Mrs Jenny Hull will work with students in Year 3 - 6 who are exceeding in the area of writing.
• Subject Acceleration - This is offered for students who are identified as working above their grade level in a particular subject.
• Grade Acceleration - If a student has successfully trialled subject acceleration (in several subjects) and has been identified as working above their grade in all areas, then they may be offered whole grade acceleration. 
• Dance Group - Specialist Group taught by Miss Natalie Burland and Mrs Melanie Mead.
• Choir - Specialist Group taught by Mrs Jessica Trovato and Mrs Rebecca Munro.

If you have any further questions regarding the program please contact the office who will connect you with me. 

Miss Natalie Burland

Newman Leader of Learning