TLI and High Ability @HEPS
Writers Festival
Last week, 20 students from Level 5 and 6 headed off to the State Library for the annual Writer's Festival. This event is something that we have participated in for the past few years and a wonderful opportunity for our students to listen and learn from those who love writing.
A great day was had by all those who attended. We hope you enjoy Ava's recount of the day, and her Writer's Festival experience.
We met up at Ringwood train station on a cold autumn morning, excited to expand our knowledge in writing. We departed the train at Southern Cross station where we walked to the Melbourne Library. After a quick snack, we prepared to sit down and listen to 4 different authors talk about their individual journeys to writing their wonderful stories.
From catapulting off a swing and cow manure fights (yes, cow manure fights), to imaginary monsters lurking in the roof, all of their stories had a secret backstory that makes them special.
One of the Authors, Nat Amoore, told us all about her wacky adventures and how Karma is most definitely real.
The second author, Nabeel Khan, taught us about the secret language of the universe and geometric patterns.
Another author, Jess Sanders, informed us on how we should love our body and who we are.
The lucky last author, Reece Carter, spoke about ghosts and how his real life ghost experiences inspired his stories.
We also enjoyed lots of fun activities and games so by the end of the day we were a bunch of tired kids waiting for our parents back at Ringwood station but it was one of the best experiences we have ever had! A special thanks to Ms Cameron and Ms Latu for taking us.
Ava 6KR
The VAGTC
The Victorian Association for Gifted and Talented Children (VAGTC) is a parent and educator-led not-for-profit organisation acting in the state of Victoria. Throughout the year they offer free seminars/webinars for educators and families. They aim to provide gifted students, their families and their teachers with the tools and resources needed to realise their full potential.
Upcoming Free session
Free Parent Seminar - June 18, 2025 19:30 -21:00
Twice Exceptionality: Presentation and Panel Discussion (Including People with lived experience)
Join us for an engaging and practical session designed specifically for parents of twice-exceptional students (children who are both gifted and have a learning difference or disability). This session will explore how to recognize and nurture your child’s unique strengths while understanding and addressing their challenges. We’ll share strategies for building confidence, supporting learning at home, and working effectively with schools to ensure your child thrives both academically and emotionally. Bring your questions!
Zoom link will be sent prior to the seminar.
Try Booking link - https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1390101
TLI (tutoring) and Learning Enhancement
Here at HEPS we are privileged to be able to support students and their learning through our TLI and Learning Enhancement programs. TLI is run by Mr Mulder each week, with students engaging in learning that centers around individual areas (or growth opportunities). Students attend up to 3 times a week (dependent on other school commitments e.g. Cross Country, Mother's Day, staff etc) and work in small group situations. TLI aims to compliment student learning that happens in the classroom, but often explores lateral understandings, new thinking or even the unique opportunities that come from students' contributions, questions and ideas.
Learning Enhancement is run by Mrs Haddad, with students attending between 3 to 5 sessions per week. Learning Enhancement focuses on specific skills of reading - decoding and fluency, with lots of time spent understanding sounds, letters and how it all comes together.
Both programs have huge impact, be it through students becoming more engaged with school and their learning, or their increased confidence and self-belief, or the specific Numeracy or Literacy skills that they have had misconceptions with or misunderstandings around.
We are deeply proud of those students who attend TLI or Learning Enhancement and the growth that they demonstrate each week.
Mr Mulder and Mrs Haddad