Rising Scholars
By Caitlin Owen, Gifted and Talented Education Coordinator
At Penrhos, we encourage our students to embrace new challenges
Last year, 10 of our gifted and talented students from the Year 10 cohort demonstrated their dedication to learning by taking part in the Curtin Rising Scholars Program. This initiative provided them with a rare opportunity to enrol in first-year university units at Curtin University – an experience typically reserved for high school graduates.
Students explored a diverse range of subjects across science, engineering, business, law and humanities, choosing courses that aligned with their interests and giving them valuable insight into potential future study pathways. Some left the Penrhos campus to attend in-person classes at Curtin University, gaining firsthand experience of university life. Others opted to study their units fully online, benefiting from the flexibility to integrate their university studies alongside their school commitments. Everyone was offered the opportunity to study their university subject in place of an elective subject at school.
Not only did students engage with challenging and enriching content in areas that sparked their curiosity, but they also had to take full responsibility for their own learning – developing strong time-management skills and adapting to independent study. As educators, one of our core aims in the Secondary School is to prepare students for life beyond Penrhos and the challenges they will face after graduation. What better way to achieve this than by providing an opportunity to step directly into the university learning environment?
“It was hard in the first few weeks, but once I had a routine, I found it manageable to coordinate with my schoolwork.”
“Getting to be in charge of how fast and how slow I learn. I could choose to do 20 minutes of the module a day or spend a four-hour chunk of time doing the module each week.”
“I loved the atmosphere there. I enjoyed making friends, not having to wear a uniform, how casual it was and also the freedom it provided.”
Penrhos students experienced enormous success participating in the program in 2024, with all completing their units and recommending the experience to others. Six students received high distinctions and a further two received a Vice-Chancellor's Commendation for scores of 90% or above.
After hearing the positive testimonials from last year’s participants, we have had a substantial increase in interest and enrolments from our Year 10 gifted and talented students this year.
By stepping into university studies while still at school, these students have gained valuable insights into independent learning, higher education and self-discipline. Their enthusiasm and determination are testament to their commitment to embracing new academic challenges with confidence and purpose.
