Inspire Program Boosts Gifted Students in Public Schools

0:00On this March 1st in Sydney, here's what is making headlines. Public schools in New South Wales are losing students to private and Catholic options with their enrollment share hitting a low of 61.5% last year. That's the seventh year in a row of decline, and families often pick independence for better challenges for bright kids. Now, the state is rolling out a new program called Inspire to Stretch High Potential Students right in regular public schools. Over the past five years, public enrollment has dropped by 37,000 students. The government aims to reverse that and hit 65.5% by 2034. Previously, only half of public schools offered any gifted programs, leaving many kids without support. Experts warned that without proper challenges, gifted students get bored, tune out, and under-achieve. University researchers estimate more than 50% aren't reaching their full potential, which can lead to disengagement or even dropping out. Inspire targets over 750,000 students in comprehensive schools with enrichment classes, extension streams, and STEM activities.

1:06Eight non-selective schools launched extension classes this year, and 20 more will join by 2027. Education Minister Pru Car is sharing details at a major summit, hoping to give every gifted kid a shot of success beyond crowded selective schools. If it delivers, it could help public schools hold on to their top talent and families. Support for this DNN episode comes from our sponsor, Relax Deeper, Reset Faster, Comfort You Can Hear, S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com.