Schools in country NSW have been included in a $100 million upgrade designed to provide enhanced educational opportunities for high-achieving students.

The money aims to enable the establishment of High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) programs that extend student learning across a range of subjects.

This investment includes an additional $50 million in the 2025-26 NSW Budget to be split between western Sydney and regional NSW to provide upgrades to school facilities so they can deliver advanced learning opportunities for high-potential students.

Bush schools to benefit from the program include Broken Hill High, Canobolas Rural Technology High School at Orange, and Tamworth High School, with the upgrades to improve science and technology laboratories, creative and performing arts spaces, music workshops, sporting facilities, and design and technology workshops.

Schools were selected based on student need and enrolment capacity with the Education Department working closely with each school to identify the infrastructure improvements that will best support student development, Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning Courtney Houssos said.

“We want every child to have the opportunity to reach their full potential at school, with high expectations for achievement,” Ms Houssos said.

“The investment in science labs, creative spaces and performance areas will help students explore and develop their talents in a supportive and enriched learning environment,” she added.

In addition to upgraded facilities, teachers at the 33 schools will receive dedicated professional learning to support the delivery of HPGE programs. Broader professional development will also be provided to teachers across all NSW public schools, ensuring consistent and expanded access to gifted education across the state.