The IGNITE program is a specialist program, providing accelerated learning for gifted and talented students living in South Australia. Unlike other states, there are only three Department of Education funded schools in South Australia that offer IGNITE’s selective program, with each school only offering a limited number of available spots each year. The schools are Glenunga International High School, The Heights School, and Aberfoyle Park High School.
Let us take a look at what The Heights School and Aberfoyle Park High School have to offer!
The Heights School is a P-12 school located in Mod bury Heights. The school accepts approximately 60 students into their IGNITE program each year. Year 11 and Year 12 IGNITE students will complete the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), while also having the opportunity to be involved in the University of Adelaide’s Head start Program.
Other than being an IGNITE school, they are also a participating school in the NEVO (North Eastern Vocational Opportunities) program, which offers a range of VET and Training course opportunities for senior high school students in North East Adelaide.
However, unlike Glenunga International High School, The Heights does not offer the IB program for its students.
Aberfoyle Park High School, located in Aberfoyle Park, accepts approximately 50 students into their IGNITE program each year. Year 12 IGNITE students in APHShave the opportunity to undertake one subject at Flinder’s University, which will also be accredited as a First Year University subject.
APHS is a partnering school in the SAFSSA (Southern Adelaide and Fleurieu Secondary School Alliance) Program, which offers a range of VET courses and training opportunities offered throughout the region. The school also has a range of programs in the Arts for students to explore.
APHS is also a candidate school for the International Baccalaureate Program, aiming to be able to deliver the program by 2022.
Similarities
The Heights School and Aberfoyle Park High School are both strong in STEM. Both schools are part of programs that aim to increase the number of students pursuing STEM while introducing students to the range of future employment opportunities available for them to explore in the defence industry.
While students selected through the IGNITE program are allowed direct entry, other students should be living in the area to enrol.
To be considered for entry into the IGNITE program, students will have to sit for an ACER assessment which consists of four sections: reading comprehension, mathematical reasoning, abstract reasoning, and written expression.
To maximise your child’s chances of enrolling into the competitive IGNITE program, have them try out some practice tests at https://www.testchamps.com.au/selective-school-testing-pricing-sa/