Creative Domain – High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE)
At Hillsborough Public School we recognise that creativity is a vital form of high potential. Students with creative strengths show imagination, originality, curiosity and a willingness to explore new ideas. Our programs are designed to challenge and support these students so their creative potential can develop into talent.
How we support the creative domain
We provide a range of classroom and extra-curricular opportunities for students who demonstrate high potential in the creative domain. These programs focus on building confidence, developing technique and encouraging students to take positive creative risks in a supportive environment.
Creative potential can be shown when a student:
- generates original or unusual ideas
- sees multiple possibilities or solutions
- enjoys experimenting with materials, language, movement or sound
- persists with imaginative tasks and refines their work over time.
We look for creative strengths across many subjects, not just in the arts.
Families can support creative development by:
- encouraging children to share their ideas and projects
- providing materials for drawing, building, writing and making
- celebrating effort and experimentation
- attending performances and showcases.
Our creative enrichment programs
Art and Graphic Design Clubs
Our Art and Graphic Design Club gives students the opportunity to explore illustration, digital design and mixed-media artwork. Students develop creativity, refine artistic techniques and learn to express ideas through both traditional and digital tools.
Guitar Group
Students develop confidence and musicality as they learn guitar techniques, practise ensemble pieces and perform for school events. The group supports creativity through rhythm, expression and teamwork.
Innovation and Design Club
A lunchtime club for students who enjoy coding, digital animation, prototyping and designing solutions to real-world problems.
Public Speaking Competitions
Students refine their presentation, expression and critical thinking skills as they participate in formal public-speaking events. These competitions challenge students to communicate complex ideas clearly and confidently.
Hunter Primary Drama Festival
Participation in the Hunter Primary Drama Festival gives students the opportunity to extend their acting, movement and storytelling skills while performing collaboratively in a regional creative arts event.
Premier’s Debating Challenge
Students expand their critical thinking and teamwork skills by competing in the Premier’s Debating Challenge. They learn to construct logical arguments, listen carefully to opposing teams and speak with confidence.
Hunter Interschools Public Speaking Competition
Through the Hunter Interschool Public Speaking Competition, students refine their public-speaking skills and represent our school in a respected regional event.
Creativity in everyday learning
In the classroom
Teachers embed creative thinking into everyday lessons using open-ended questions, choice of task, project-based learning, and opportunities to present understanding in varied ways.
Beyond the classroom
Students apply their creative skills through Book Week events, art displays, STEM challenges and participation in local festivals.
Celebrating student creativity
Our annual Creative Showcase (2026) highlights artworks, performances, films, writing pieces and design projects from across the school. This event recognises the creative talents of students in all stages.
Have a question for our principal or teachers?
Our friendly office team can help you get in touch.