The GATE programme at Burnside High School enters its third year in 2009.
When it was initiated in 2007 it focused on extension and enrichment rather than acceleration. The programme incorporated seminars, field trips, lectures, and workshops, as well as providing a venue for our Environmental Group and Go Club, and from time to time facilitating participation in events such as the Model United Nations, Future Problem Solving, and the International Solar Powered Model Boat Competition. In 2007 entry into the programme was principally by teacher nomination.
In 2008 this changed and aspects of the programme were available to all on request. With almost no exceptions GATE activities occured outside the normal school day, at lunchtimes (visiting speakers), after school (most seminars and workshops) or at weekends and in the holidays (field trips).
Topics covered by seminars, workshops and lectures included carbon nanofibres, the psychology of perception, the role of the individual in history, computer modelling of kidney function, measurement of blood cholesterol levels, creative writing, animal rights, and astrophysics. Field trips included the Ring Laser in the Cashmere Caverns, CircoArts at Christchurch Polytech, and the Mount John Observatory at Tekapo.
Many events were free or had a nominal cost: some were considerably more expensive (such as travel to Australia for the Solar Powered Model Boat Competition). Every effort was made to minimise costs so as to enable as many as possible to participate, and sponsorship was sought when appropriate.
In 2009 Departments will continue to offer extension activities within their programmes and able students will be encouraged to involve themselves in such activities as chess, bebating, go and future problem solving. In addition ,Year 9 students who are identified as gifted by their teachers, according to established criteria, will be withdrawn for half a day per term for a GATE programme which will be provided in turn by each of the Mathematics, English, Science and Social Sciences departments.
Following evaluation by students and teachers involved, the goal will be to extend this programme to Year 9 and 10 in 2010.
Mrs Sandra Pooch
GATE Coordinator