Mount Maunganui College Gifted and Talented Workshops

The photos show Year 8 and 9 students engaged in the workshops.
What Extension and enrichment classes which involve problem-solving hands-on challenges. Each workshop is led by a specialist subject teacher and each workshop is from a different curriculum area. The workshops started in 2006 and have been very popular with both students and their parents. There is no cost to the students. A typical year’s programme includes workshops in Mathematics; Media Studies; Food Technology; Science e.g. Chemistry; Japanese; History; Drama; and Physical Education.
Who Year 8 students from Tahatai Coast School, Te Akau Ki Papamoa School, and Mount Intermediate, combine with talented Year 9 students from the College. Limited to 20 students in total and there is usually a waiting list. Year 8 students often re-register in Year 9 because they have enjoyed the programme so much.
When Wednesdays, 3.30 – 5 p.m. We run 4-5 workshops in each term: Terms 1, 2 and 3.
Where At the College, in various rooms and specialist areas e.g. laboratories for the science workshops.
Why The College offers talented students of like mind the chance to explore a range of subjects at a higher level of thinking. Each workshop is attended by the GATE Facilitator who is able to get to know the gifted students prior to their arrival in Year 9 as part of our identification strategy. This enables us to plan individual pathways for any students who show exceptional ability in a particular area.
How to register Registration forms are sent out in late February each year to the three Intermediate schools and to all Year 9 students. Students may be nominated by teachers, parents, or themselves. 2009 workshops started in mid-March.
Contact the Gate Facilitator: Dinah O’Meara dinaho@mmc.school.nz