Enrolment

Arete Lyceum
Arete Lyceum offers a specialist learning environment for gifted and highly able students. Enrolment is selective and based on evidence of giftedness, readiness for the learning program, and the school’s capacity to meet each student’s needs.
Who Can Apply
Applications are welcomed from students who demonstrate high intellectual ability and academic potential. Arete Lyceum also welcomes applications from students with additional needs. Final enrolment decisions are made by the Principal, taking into account the best interests of the student and the learning community.
Age Requirements (Reception Entry)
For mid-year intake Reception (6-term Foundation):
Students must be at least 4 years and 6 months old by 30 April in the year of enrolment.
Early entry may be approved at the Principal’s discretion.
Application Process
Step 1: Submit an Application
Parents/caregivers are required to complete an online Application.
Applications must include:
– all required supporting documentation
Incomplete applications cannot be assessed.
Step 2: Evidence of Giftedness
As part of the application process, families are asked to provide supporting evidence of the child’s giftedness.
Where possible, applications should include at least one piece of evidence from each category below.
Cognitive Ability
Examples include:
– A score at or above the 97th percentile on a recognised intelligence test
– A psychologist’s report using recognised assessments (e.g. WISC, Stanford-Binet, Woodcock-Johnson)
– Membership of Mensa
Academic Achievement
Examples include:
– Results at or above the 95th percentile on standardised achievement tests
– Top-band or higher NAPLAN results
– Distinction or High Distinction awards in recognised academic competitions
– Qualification for programs such as Junior Scientia or Scientia Challenge
Anecdotal and Qualitative Evidence
Examples include:
– A letter from the current school confirming the student performs within the top 5% of peers
– Teacher nomination
– Student questionnaire
– Recent school reports
Step 3: Panel Review
Applications are reviewed by an Enrolment Panel, comprising the Principal and a teacher.
If the application meets the selection criteria, families will be invited to the next stage.
Step 4: Interview
Parents/caregivers and the student attend an interview with the Enrolment Panel.
– Interviews typically run for 30–45 minutes
– Students are encouraged to bring a portfolio of work samples or additional documentation
Following the family interview, the student will take part in a short, informal one-on-one discussion with the Panel.
The principal may request additional information if required.
Step 5: Outcome Notification
Families will be notified in writing within 14 days of the interview as to whether an offer of enrolment has been made.
Step 6: Accepting an Offer
Successful applicants will receive:
– an Enrolment Form
– information regarding enrolment fees
Places are secured only once:
– all enrolment documentation is returned, and
– required enrolment fees are paid by the specified date
Failure to do so may result in the offer being withdrawn.