The NSW Government is rebuilding our essential services by investing $100 million in upgrades at 33 public high schools to support the rollout of programs for thousands of high-potential students across NSW.

These enhancements will enable schools to deliver High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) programs that extend student learning across a range of subjects, as part of the Government’s broader commitment to expand gifted education across every public school.

This investment, including an additional $50 million in the 2025/26 NSW Budget, will be split between Western Sydney and Regional NSW, including Casino High School, providing much-needed upgrades to school facilities so they can deliver advanced learning opportunities for high-potential students.

Upgrades will include improvements to:

• Science and technology laboratories
• Creative and performing arts spaces
• Music workshops
• Sporting facilities
• Design and technology workshops

Schools were selected based on student need and enrolment capacity. The Department of Education is working closely with each school to identify the infrastructure improvements that will best support student development.

In addition to upgraded facilities, teachers at the 33 schools will receive dedicated professional learning to support the delivery of HPGE programs. Broader professional development will also be provided to teachers across all NSW public schools, ensuring consistent and expanded access to gifted education across the state.

The 14 regional schools benefiting from the program rollout are:

• Muswellbrook High School
• Batemans Bay High School
• Bowral High School
• Broken Hill High School
• Canobolas Rural Technology High School
• Casino High School
• Forbes High School
• Kooringal High School
• Lake Macquarie High School
• Lisarow High School
• Lithgow High School
• Moruya High School
• Narara Valley High School
• Tamworth High School

Since being elected, the Minns Labor Government has commenced construction on more than 25 new and upgraded schools for growing communities across NSW, with another 30 set to begin before the end of 2025.

Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning Courtney Houssos said, “We want every child to have the opportunity to reach their full potential at school, with high expectations for achievement.

“This Budget is a significant investment in upgrading classrooms and specialist facilities so that schools can deliver on the commitment made by the Education Minister, Prue Car, to expand access to High Potential and Gifted Education.

“Parents can be confident that their local public school will bring out the best in their child.

“NSW public schools already offer a free, world-class education — and these new programs will only enhance that offering.

“The investment in science labs, creative spaces, and performance areas will help students explore and develop their talents in a supportive and enriched learning environment.”