Applications will be assessed according to the following criteria:
Criteria 1
Alignment with curriculum and high ability
Weighting = 25%
The extent to which the proposed program and activities will engage and challenge high-ability students in alignment with the Victorian curriculum.
Applicants should address:
- the alignment of the proposed program to learning areas and/or capabilities of the Victorian Curriculum F–10
- how the program is designed to engage and cater to high-ability students
- how the program will promote interaction and the building of connections between participants
Criteria 2
Organisational expertise (program)
Weighting = 25%
The extent to which the organisation has the appropriate knowledge, skills, and expertise to successfully deliver the proposed program to school-aged children.
Applicants should address:
- the personnel within the organisation who will be responsible for developing and delivering the program
- the professional capability and qualifications of these personnel
Criteria 3
Organisational expertise (admin and promotions)
Weighting = 20%
The extent to which the organisation has the capacity to administer and promote the proposed program, inclusive of running a registration process in line with department requirements.
Applicants should address:
- how they will schedule and deliver the events (venue, platform etc), noting that activities outside of school hours are highly regarded
- how they will promote the program in order to attract participants (a high-level marketing plan)
- how they will meet participant survey requirements set by the department
- how they will track participation, engagement, and expenditure for reporting and funding acquittal requirements.
Criteria 4
Inclusivity
Weighting = 10%
The extent to which the organisation has the capacity to deliver an inclusive program.
Applicants should address:
- the setting of internal targets for the participation of priority cohorts such as First Nations students, those from regional/rural areas, and those from disadvantaged backgrounds
- how the program will be designed to support twice-exceptional students.
Criteria 5
Cost effectiveness
Weighting = 10%
The extent to which the organisation can deliver a cost-effective program and demonstrate responsible use of public funds.
Applicants should address:
- all costs associated with delivery of the program, including any facilities travel, accommodation, resources, software etc.
- a cost-per-head figure based on minimum agreed participant numbers
Criteria 6
Risk management
Weighting = 10%
The extent to which the organisation can demonstrate satisfactory risk management processes and procedures:
Applicants should address:
- their approach to identifying and mitigating risks associated with the delivery of their proposed program.
Factors of consideration
In determining the successful applications, the department will take into consideration across the full series of activities:
- Coverage across the Victorian curriculum.
- Access for students from Foundation to Year 10, noting that an individual organisation is not expected to address all year levels.
- Access for students in all areas of Victoria.
- Access for student from underrepresented cohorts such as First Nations and disadvantaged backgrounds.
- Access for students with disabilities.
- The provision of activities outside of school hours.