University of Newcastle HDR Student Festival – Inspiring Our Future Scholars

On Tuesday, 26 August, selected students from across our schools attended the University of Newcastle Higher Degree by Research (HDR) Student Festival at the Callaghan Campus. This exciting event gave students a unique opportunity to experience university life firsthand, meet current researchers, and explore pathways into higher education.

Throughout the day, students engaged with interactive workshops, panel discussions, and campus tours, gaining valuable insights into how research shapes innovation and future careers. It was a wonderful opportunity for our students to see how their talents, curiosity, and learning can extend far beyond the classroom.

We thank the University of Newcastle for hosting this inspiring event and our participating students and families for their support.

Virtual Academy Nominations for 2026 Now Open

The Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle is pleased to announce that nominations are now open for the Virtual Academy 2026. This innovative online program is designed to extend High Potential and Gifted (HPG) students in Years 5–8, challenging them with conceptual, inquiry-based learning and opportunities to develop real-world problem-solving skills.

While many students are identified and nominated in Year 5 to participate for four years, the program also welcomes nominations for students new to our schools or those who have demonstrated emerging high potential. School leaders and teachers are encouraged to consider both current and future enrolments and reflect on data, performance, and observations to identify students who would thrive in this program.

The nomination process also supports equity and diversity, ensuring that students from underrepresented groups - including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, EAL/D students, rural and remote learners, and twice/thrice-exceptional students - are given fair access to this opportunity.

Important details:

• Nominations are not required for students currently enrolled, as their placement will automatically roll over to 2026.
• Year 6 students moving on to Catholic secondary schools should still be nominated by their current school to ensure continuity of learning.
• School GEMs are asked to complete all nominations by Friday, 31 October 2025 (Term 4, Week 3).
• At this stage, schools are asked not to inform students or families of nominations until formal offers are made to avoid disappointment should placements not proceed.

Following the review process, selected students will receive a formal letter of offer, along with further information about the Virtual Academy and guidance on selecting their unit and virtual conference times.

The Diocese thanks all school leaders and staff for their diligence and collaborative approach in supporting High Potential and Gifted students through this process.

For further details about the Virtual Academy nomination process for 2026, please contact your GEM or contact Maree Karaka (Leader of High Potential and Gifted Education).