The CAP program

CAP is the Core Academic Program at Warilla High School.

CAP strives to develop the talent of high achieving students. It offers a dynamic and supportive learning environment where academic excellence is nurtured, curiosity is encouraged, and students are challenged to reach their full potential. The program consists of a selective class formed for Years 7 and 8. Students in these classes are encouraged and supported in the optimisation of growth across the domains of potential:

• Intelligence
• Creativity
• Socio-Emotional
• Physical

CAP is delivered across all Stage 4 subjects, with a consistent focus for teachers to provide lessons incorporating higher order thinking strategies and develop 21st century learning skills. Central to CAP is the incorporation of project based learning, cross-curricular learning and advanced skills projects. These are planned throughout the year and run across multiple subjects. Lessons are designed to be stimulating and rigorous, incorporating inquiry-based learning, real-world problem solving, and opportunities for collaboration. Students participate in tailored enrichment tasks that extend their learning beyond the standard curriculum.

CAP also strives to support students as they consider future career paths and studies. By engaging with classroom teachers, enrichment programs, and study skill initiatives, students will acquire the necessary skills to apply themselves in tertiary study and their desired careers.

How are students identified for the CAP Program

Identifying high achieving students for CAP is an intensive, data driven process undertaken throughout Year 6.

All students from our local feeder primary schools are tested. These schools include:

• Shellharbour Public School
• Flinders Public School
• Shell Cove Public School
• Warilla Public School
• Barrack Heights Public School.

Students who attend these primary schools do not need to seek out further CAP Program testing.

Students who do not attend one of our local feeder primary schools may also be eligible for CAP testing. These students must be fully enrolled to attend Warilla High School for the subsequent school year.

Testing occurs at the student’s primary school. The following quantitative and qualitative data is collected and used to form the CAP classes:

• Check-In testing data
• AGAT testing data
• Primary school results
• Information provided by primary school transition team
• Interviews with primary school teachers
• Student observations by the CAP Coordinator.

We are committed to identifying potential in diverse learners. CAP selection considers a range of data sources to ensure that students from all backgrounds and learning profiles are given the opportunity to thrive in a high-potential environment. This rigorous testing process allows us to be confident that the student identified for CAP should begin their Stage 4 learning in a high achieving class.

Have a question about the CAP Program?

Please contact Alana Hanson, the CAP Program Coordinator here at WHS.

Contact us