Gifted & Talented – Languages

The Gifted and Talented Languages Program at Mount Lawley Senior High School is one of Western Australia’s longest-running specialist language programs, with a proud history dating back to 1971.

Since its establishment, the program has developed a strong reputation for excellence, providing talented students with opportunities to achieve advanced language proficiency, develop intercultural understanding and engage in enriched learning experiences. Students may choose to study either Chinese (Mandarin) or Italian while learning in a challenging and supportive academic environment.

Program Overview

The Gifted and Talented Languages Program operates from Years 7 to 10 and is designed to meet the needs of students with exceptional aptitude and enthusiasm for language learning.

Students benefit from:

  • Advanced language studies in Chinese (Mandarin) or Italian
  • A differentiated curriculum tailored to gifted learners
  • Specialist teachers and dedicated program support
  • Native-speaking language assistants and tutors
  • Participation in language competitions, cultural activities and excursions
  • Opportunities for international study tours and exchange experiences

The program encourages students to become confident communicators, critical thinkers and globally minded citizens while fostering a deep appreciation of language and culture.

Learning Environment

In Years 7 and 8, Gifted and Talented students are grouped together for English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities and Social Sciences, as well as their chosen language. This structure allows teachers to provide targeted extension and enrichment opportunities while supporting the social and emotional needs of gifted learners.

Students also participate in a range of elective subjects and specialist learning areas alongside the broader school community.

In Years 9 and 10, students continue together for Languages while accessing a wide range of elective and pathway subjects that support their individual interests and aspirations.

Student Success

Mount Lawley Senior High School Gifted and Talented students have a long history of academic achievement, including success in WACE examinations, national language competitions and international language assessments.

Many graduates have continued their language studies at university and established careers where multilingual communication and intercultural understanding have become valuable professional assets.For the remainder of their program Gifted and Talented students pursue studies in Physical and Health Education and various elective areas (Art, Computing, Design and Technology, Drama, Integrated Studies, Home Economics and Music) where they work with the broader student body as the timetable permits.

In Upper School (Years 9 and 10) they remain grouped together for Languages but are fully integrated with the rest of the Year 10 cohort for all other subjects.

Selection Process

The Gifted and Talented Languages Program is administered by the Department of Education's Gifted and Talented Selection Unit.

Applications Open

Term 4, Year 5

Applications Close

Term 1, Year 6

Selective Entrance Test

Term 1, Year 6

Interviews

Shortlisted applicants are invited to attend an interview and provide supporting school reports.

Offers Released

Term 2, Year 6

Selection is based on performance in the Selective Entrance Test and interview process.

Regional Students

Students from regional Western Australia who are accepted into the program may be eligible to apply for accommodation through the Department of Education's residential college at City Beach.

 

For application information, current timelines and testing details, please visit the Department of Education Gifted and Talented Programs website: www.education.wa.edu.au/giftedandtalented.

Acknowledgement of Country

Mount Lawley Senior High School acknowledges the Whadjuk (Whadjak) People of the Nyoongar Nation as the Traditional Custodians of this land. We pay our respects to their Elders, both past and present, and to their continuing connection to Noongar Boodja (Noongar Country).

Address

65 Woodsome Street
Mount Lawley
Western Australia 6050

Enquiries

Main Administration

+61 (8) 9265 1500 Email Main Administration

Alumni

Email Alumni

Sub-schools

Middle School (Years 7-8)

+61 (8) 9265 1573 Email Middle School

Upper School (Years 9-10)

+61 (8) 9265 1543 Email Upper School

Senior School (Years 11-12)

+61 (8) 9265 1535 Email Senior School

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