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Academic Excellence Program

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​​​​​MacGregor State High School's Academic Excellence Pathway is designed for students who demonstrate strong academic potential and enjoy being challenged. The pathway offers a structured program of academic extension and enrichment for students who are curious, motivated learners and benefit from opportunities that stretch their thinking beyond the core curriculum.

Through rich learning experiences, students are challenged to test their thinking, solve complex problems and explore new and emerging technologies. Learning experiences emphasise analytical thinking, innovation and using learning to solve new and real-world problems.

Who the Program is for

  • The Academic Excellence Pathway provides opportunities for academically high achieving students to:
  • Extend and deepen learning for students with demonstrated academic strength
  • Engage in challenging problem solving that requires logic, creativity and persistence
  • Explore STEM-focused learning, digital technologies and innovative applications
  • Foster a strong culture of curiosity, effort and academic engagement

​Eligibility and Application Process

Entry into the Academic Excellence Pathway is merit-based and determined through a transparent application process. Consideration may include:

  • NAPLAN results (Year 5)
  • Year 5 and 6 academic reports, with particular attention to achievement data and learning behaviours
  • Student application video (maximum 2 minutes).  In your video you should discuss your learning strengths and how you approach learning.  You may like to include:
    • Your strengths as a learner
    • How you learn best
    • What helps you stay focused/motivated
    • Discuss how this would help you attain success in the Academic Excellence Program
  • ​A suitability interview, focusing on commitment and readiness, may be requested

Applications are reviewed holistically to determine whether the pathway is an appropriate educational fit for the student.

Learning and Enrichment Opportunities

  • Students accepted into the Academic Excellence Pathway may access a range of extension and enrichment opportunities, including:
  • Participation in academic competitions such as ICAS, Readers Cup and the Australian Mathematics Competition (AMC)
  • Enrichment opportunities in STEM, digital technologies, engineering and problem-solving
  • Structured extension activities that promote advanced thinking and application of knowledge
  • Collaborative learning experiences that connect curriculum learning to authentic contexts

​Ongoing Participation

Ongoing participation is dependent on students meeting the expectations of the pathway and engaging consistently with the learning opportunities provided. Participation is reviewed in line with school processes to ensure the program continues to support students' learning needs.

For more information, please contact Head of Junior Secondary, Damien Forbesdmfor4@eq.edu.au

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Last reviewed 20 May 2026
Last updated 20 May 2026