Supporting high ability learners

Stories from the new year

Kick off the new school year with stories straight from the classroom! Hear from staff, little learners, and students of all ages as they share their new adventures going into a new year learning.

In Victoria, education empowers young people to reach their full potential. We recognise that every classroom includes students who need extra support, as well as students who benefit from enrichment, extension and challenge. Whatever a student’s interests or abilities, the Department of Education provides a broad range of programs and supports designed to meet students where they are and helps them thrive.

Our Education State vision is to deliver excellence in every classroom, in every corner of the state. The Victorian Teaching and Learning Model 2.0, an evidence-based framework ensures teachers have the tools, knowledge and support needed to deliver high-quality learning for every student. These efforts are delivering results, with Victorian students achieving the strongest NAPLAN outcomes in the country in 2025.

The Victorian Government is building on these strong foundations through a range of targeted initiatives for students in government schools. Delivered within schools or through tailored programs, these initiatives enrich and extend learning for the 20 per cent of students identified as high-ability learners, supporting academic extension, engagement and wellbeing.

High‑ability learners thrive when their school experience is challenging, engaging, and emotionally supportive. Schools typically provide a mix of enrichment and extension to ensure these students continue to grow.

Classroom instruction: Teachers adjust the level, pace, and complexity of activities so high‑ability students are challenged at the right level.
Enrichment programs: Students explore topics in greater depth, creativity, or complexity
Extension opportunities: Students move through subjects or work on advanced content earlier than usual.
Social‑emotional support: Schools help high‑ability students build resilience, manage perfectionism, and connect with like‑minded peers.
Flexible grouping: Students work with peers who share similar abilities or interests for part of the week.

High ability initiatives in Victorian government schools

Whether through challenge and enrichment programs or dedicated educational settings, Victorian public schools support your child to reach their potential.

Your child’s school will be able to support your child’s access to relevant extension and enrichment offerings. Advice for schools is available on the department’s Policy & Advisory Library.