Academic Extension Program Rossmoyne Senior High School

Rossmoyne Senior High School has for many years operated a highly successful Academic Extension Program to cater for students who exhibit outstanding ability or talent in various learning areas. Extension classes are provided for Year 8, 9 and 10 students in English, Science, Mathematics, Society and Environment, and Technology and Enterprise (Computing).  In addition, specialist programs in Volleyball and Classical Music also cater for students with the ability and aspirations for special development in music and sport.  The school's Bushrangers Western Australia and Youth Leaders programs provide opportunties for students to engage in unique programs focusing on environmental studies and leadership development.  The feasibility of a very exciting and challenging academic program in Engineering is being explored at present, with view to implementation in Year 8 possibly as early as 2009. 

The extension programs seek to further develop the skills and abilities of our talented students by fostering an environment which provides challenge and where students can work with peers who share similar interests,aspirations and abilities. Currently, over 250 students are involved in the school's extension programs.

Students need to earn the right of entry into extension classes by demonstrating superior ability in their current courses of study.  Applications for places in the programs are through expressions of interest in the first instance. The selection process for Year 8 students commences toward the end of Term 1 in the areas of English, Science and Society and Environment and allows time for students to settle into the high school environment. Mathematics students are selected on the basis of primary school data and test results and commence classes at the start of term 1.

Classes operate at various times and can be held before school, after school or by withdrawal from normal classes during the school day.

The extension programs involves lateral extension and enrichment, and can also involve acceleration. For example the Year 8 Science program seeks to improve the problem solving ability, lateral thinking skills, creativity and ability of students to design experiments and the Year 10 Society and Environment extension program involves acceleration through normal course work and participation in the Petroleum Club competition.

Students are able to engage in a wide variety of stimulating activities and they also enjoy opportunities to enter a range of prestigious competitions.