Unlocking Excellence: GSHS Academic Program of Excellence and STEM
At Geraldton Senior High School (GSHS), we are committed to delivering a world-class education that empowers students with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities to succeed in a rapidly changing world. Our Academic Program of Excellence (APEX), delivered in partnership with the CoRE Learning Foundation, combines academic challenge with real-world STEM applications. Through APEX, we also support students undertaking the Department of Education WA’s Gifted and Talented Academic program, providing them with tailored learning, mentoring, and extension opportunities.
Engagement with Industry Partners
A defining feature of our Academic Program of Excellence is its strong collaboration with leading industry partners, giving students direct exposure to real-world challenges. Students, including those in the Gifted and Talented (GATE) program, engage in innovative STEM projects like ‘Critically Electrified’ (Year 9), which took us to Iluka Mine-site in Eneabba to explore the science of rare earth minerals. These experiences provide valuable insight into geology, environmental science, and resource management, as students work alongside industry professionals in authentic contexts.
National Competitions and Challenges
Students in the Academic Program of Excellence, including those in the Gifted and Talented (GATE) program, have the opportunity to take part in a range of prestigious national competitions. Highlights include the Big Science Competition, where students demonstrate scientific reasoning and problem-solving on a national stage, along with the Solar Car Challenge, the National History Challenge, and the Young Geographers Award.
APEX develops essential skills such as critical thinking and innovation, preparing students for success in diverse fields. Participation in the Tournament of Minds—a long-standing interschool competition focused on creativity, collaboration, and analytical thinking—supports these goals. In both 2023 and 2024, Geraldton Senior High School teams ranked in the top ten among over 170 schools across WA.
Students also become published authors through the APEX Annual, a student-led publication showcasing original writing. As part of this process, they engage in focused writing workshops, where they refine their ideas through drafting, feedback, and revision, building confidence and skill as young writers.
Testimonials
“My child comes home inspired—revising notes, researching CoRE project topics, and constantly brainstorming new engineering ideas. The APEX program has truly sparked her curiosity.” – Parent of Year 9 student, 2025
“I love the extra projects we get to do, like ‘Glorious Sands’. Our APEX teachers make learning engaging and fun, and I’ve discovered so much about the world around me.” – APEX Student
“The APEX program has nurtured not only his academic strengths but also supported his social confidence and emotional wellbeing.” – Parent of Year 9 student, 2025
“APEX has helped me discover my potential. It’s pushed me beyond what I thought I was capable of, and I feel more confident in what I can achieve.” – APEX Student
“Tournament of Minds gave me the chance to celebrate my culture and explore my family history. Getting so close to the State finals was an unforgettable experience.” – APEX Student
For more information about the Gifted and Talented Online Program visit:
Department of Education Gifted and Talented
Find out more
Or email Courtney Evans
