A Career Education Program for Gifted High School Students

Abstract

This article reports the development of a career education program for gifted high school students in a New South Wales selective, coeducational high school. The program replaced a previous approach that was demand-responsive, generic in approach, and not aligned with student needs. A needs analysis of the school and a formative evaluation were undertaken to ensure successful redevelopment of the program. These evaluations resulted in the following changes to the school's program: earlier and more flexible career awareness opportunities; increased scope for clarification of values; inclusion of psychological, psychocreative, and social elements; integration of career education and student welfare; lifelong learning emphases; aspiration enhancement for particular students; strategy employment for females; and an expansion in community learning opportunities. A program influenced by these elements was then highlighted as a best-practice exemplar.