Gifted and Talented Education

Gifted and talented education (GATE) at Keysborough Secondary College ensures that students working ahead of the age expected level are challenged in their learning.  GATE education includes a number of programs at Keysborough Secondary College, including:

• KEEP (Years 7 to 9)
• VHAP (Years 7 and 8)
• STEM (Year 9)
• Advanced Science/STEM (Year 10)
• Early entry to VCE Unit 1/2 and Unit 3/4 subjects
• Access to University level courses while in Year 11 and 12

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths) subjects include

Science
Physical, chemical and biological

Technology
Information and engineering – modelling, designing and programming

Engineering
Physical design, construction and practical application

Mathematics
Advanced and Methods

Extensive resources include

• two dedicated STEM centres
• state-of-the-art science teaching labs
• technology and engineering design and build facilities
• a team of specialist teachers
• a rich variety of theoretical and practical studies
• industry and university involvement.

STEM is a Keysborough Secondary College select entry program involving technology in schools.

Students completing Year 9 who show a proclivity for Mathematics and Science must also complete the entrance exam successfully.

The STEM program offers a pipeline to University studies in Science, Technology, Mathematics and Engineering. Both the Keysborough Secondary College Acacia and Banksia campuses provide a STEM program, with dedicated classes for around 20 students, at each campus.

What is the curriculum?

The curriculum is geared towards achieving better VCE results and providing practical and tangible experiences to help senior students identify and work towards University courses in their areas of interest.

How does STEM work?

The College provides an extensive range of resources including two dedicated STEM centres, involving state-of-the-art Science teaching labs, Technology and Engineering design and build facilities.

STEM includes a team of dedicated specialist teachers, providing a rich variety of theoretical and practical studies that include industry and University involvement.

Practical and hands-on projects involve VIC Roads Civil Engineering, National Science, Mathematics and Technology competitions.

Why has Keysborough Secondary College created an Advanced STEM program?

Keysborough Secondary College Advanced STEM provides a dedicated Science and Technology program for students growing up in the south-east of Melbourne.

The area is characterised by middle to lower socio-economic communities and the Keysborough Secondary College STEM program can make a real difference to the future of many students.

STEM offers to enhance their interests and abilities, provide a leg up into highly regarded University courses, and open the door to a lifelong pathway in Science and Mathematics -related industries and employment.

What University course requirements will STEM satisfy?
Keysborough Secondary College STEM provides a pathway to numerous University Science and Engineering courses including but not limited to: Medical Science and Biomedicine, Engineering, Computer Science and Biological Science.

Are there examples of successful STEM programs?

Yes. Keysborough Secondary College has established links with leading international STEM programs in the UK including York University, and secondary schools in the York region.

Locally, Keysborough Secondary College is working with Monash University on reciprocal arrangements to enhance the program and involve University Masters, and undergraduate pre-service teachers.

2026 KEEP Program

The Keysborough College Extension and Enrichment Program is designed for our most ambitious students and is a Select Entry Program for eligible year 7 students that possess high potential to excel in English and Maths. Enrichment opportunities are also offered in other Learning Domains throughout the year.

Choosing the Right Pathway

We understand that choosing the right pathway for your child is a critical decision. Our program is designed to provide your child with the skills and knowledge they need to excel in their future endeavours. We invite you to explore the opportunities our program offers and to consider how it can help your child realise their full potential. To find out more about the program, please visit our College website or contact the school directly, request to speak to our High Abilities Leaders: Indra Walia de Leon.

Register Your Interest

There is no cost associated with the Keysborough College Extension and Enrichment program, however your child must be enrolled at Keysborough Secondary College for the 2026 school year to be eligible to undertake the Edu test exam, a requirement that will determine your child’s suitability for the program. Register via the QR code below or via the Keysborough College website.

Register Now
Registrations close on 28th July 2025.

The exam will run 9.00am—11.45am on
Saturday 2nd August 2025.
Keysborough College Banksia Campus
8-20 Janine Road, Springvale South 3172.
Please arrive by 8:45 for a prompt start