HALE

In 2026 Port Melbourne Secondary College will provide a High Ability Learning Extension (HALE) program for Year 7–9 students who demonstrate strong academic abilities and/or academic potential. The program has a particular focus on extending and enriching learning for students who require additional challenge in the classroom and builds upon the Department of Education’s commitment to actively support the needs of high ability students. 

High ability, high challenge 

The HALE program provides an opportunity for students to engage with challenging, stimulating learning that is tailored to meet the needs of students capable of outstanding academic achievement. It places a greater emphasis on higher order thinking skills, complex problem-solving, independent learning and research. Enrichment is provided by broadening and deepening content and context, and through nurturing skills and capabilities appropriate to the students’ stage of development. Students are extended through in-depth study and the integration and application of knowledge at a higher level. 

HALE classes 

Students who wish to enter the HALE Program will be required to participate in a selection process. Those who are accepted into the program will participate in the same subjects as other students in their year level; however, the complexity of the work, the way that content is approached and the pace at which the students work will differ. HALE students will take the following subjects; English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities, French, SMaRT, PHaSE, Core and two electives. 

Process for 2027 enrolment into HALE 

Selection testing is managed by Edutest, an external organisation engaged by the college. The testing is skills-based rather than curriculum-based and is designed to identify student ability rather than acquired knowledge.

Families interested in the HALE program must register via the Edutest website. Applications and payment must be submitted by Saturday 1 August. Testing will take place onsite at Port Melbourne Secondary College on Wednesday, 5 August. Further details will be provided to registered families closer to the date. Students may sit the test for entry at Year 7, 8 or 9. Places for entry in Years 8 and 9 are limited, and families are encouraged to contact the college prior to registering.

Important information

Year 7, 8 and 9 students seeking entry in 2027 must have received and accepted an enrolment offer at Port Melbourne Secondary College to receive their HALE test outcome. Families who have not accepted an enrolment offer will not be contacted regarding results.

If your child is registered to sit the Edutest exam at multiple schools, they will only complete the test once. Results will be shared with all nominated schools.

A link to register via Edutest will be available on this page from Thursday 7 May.