Selective stream

At Sydney Secondary College Leichhardt, our selective stream offers 60 places in Year 7 each year for students identified as high potential and gifted. These students thrive in a learning environment alongside like-minded peers who enjoy inquiry, deep thinking, and academic challenge. Being part of this stream supports not only intellectual growth but also social connection among students with similar interests and abilities.

We understand that exceptional potential can emerge at any stage. Therefore, students may also transfer into the selective stream in Years 8 to 10, subject to place availability.

For details on enrolment for selective students in Year 7 or Years 8 to 10, please visit our enrolment page. See also the NSW Department of Education’s Selective High Schools page.

Our Approach to the Selective Stream

At Sydney Secondary College Leichhardt, the selective stream is designed to meet the learning needs of gifted students through a supportive and challenging curriculum tailored to their abilities.

• Identification: Selection involves a state-wide process that is inclusive, culturally fair, and considers multiple criteria to ensure all students with high potential are recognised.
• Differentiated Curriculum: Learning experiences across all Key Learning Areas (KLAs) are differentiated to extend student thinking and engagement. Regular pre-assessments allow teachers to understand students’ prior knowledge and design lessons that build on their strengths.
• Enriched Learning Environment: Our curriculum encourages superior reasoning, independent learning, and the development of complex ideas. Students benefit from opportunities to explore topics deeply, connect evidence, and engage in higher-order thinking.
• Assessment and Reporting: Our assessment approach aligns with differentiation to accurately reflect student learning and progress.

Enrichment and Extension Opportunities

Beyond the classroom, selective stream students have access to a wide range of programs that nurture their talents and interests, including:

• The College Instrumental Music Program and creative arts performances such as drama, dance, theatre sports, ensembles, and art exhibitions.
• Participation in excursions, incursions, and competitive events at state and national levels.
• Leadership pathways through Student Representative Council, peer tutoring, and mentoring programs.
• The Talented Athlete Program (TAP), supporting students excelling in sports.
• Engagement in programs like the Duke of Edinburgh Award to develop leadership, resilience, and community involvement.

Selective Stream Organisation

• Years 7 and 8: Selective students are fully grouped in all KLAs, fostering a tailored and cohesive learning environment.
• Years 9 and 10: Students remain fully grouped in core KLAs, with mixed groupings in electives, allowing greater subject choice and exploration.
• Years 11 and 12: Students continue their studies at the Blackwattle Bay Campus, selecting subjects aligned with their abilities and interests, including all available extension courses for the Higher School Certificate.

Our selective stream complements the broader High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) program at Sydney Secondary College Leichhardt, which supports all students to engage deeply and achieve personal excellence. For more information about our school’s approach to gifted education, please see the High Potential and Gifted Education page.

Interested in Selective at SSCL?

Find out how to apply for a position in the selective stream at Sydney Secondary College Leichhardt.

Enrolment