2024 Student Programs

In our Eco Architects workshop, you'll explore the amazing world of ecosystems and the creatures that live within them. Then, you'll get to unleash your creativity by designing and building your very own model ecosystem. It's a fun mix of learning and crafting, all while discovering how we can help our planet. Presented by Jessica Power

This workshop will focus on thinking critically about our own character through exploring our strengths and weaknesses, reflecting and awareness of our own character strengths and how to use them in the real world. This course will leave you with greater introspection, insight and result in increased self-awareness and ways this can improve their well-being. Presented by Emma Paul.

Design, build and code your own interactive environment that addresses the specific needs of living things while also considering the impact of climate and human actions. Step into a new dimension as you create a virtual representation using block-based coding and showcase your captivating design using Augmented Reality! 

For this program, students are required to bring a computer, tablet or ipad. If your child does not have a device, please email gerric@unsw.edu.au to request one. Presented by Kate Archer.

How has the modern world been shaped by this ancient civilisation? During this three-day course, we will delve into the world of Ancient Greek mythology. We will learn about a period of political, philosophical, artistic and scientific achievement that has formed a legacy unparalleled in its influence on the modern world. Be prepared to delve into the weird and wonderful world of Ancient Greek mythology and explore how these stories have still resonate over 2000 years later.

For this program, students are required to bring a computer, tablet or ipad. If your child does not have a device, please email gerric@unsw.edu.au to request one. Presented by Madeleine Fernon.

Students will be asked to bring three objects from the natural world that represents something to them over the three days. Objects may be stones, shells, bones, quills, wood, sticks, leaves, dried grass, seed pods, flowers or bark. The collections of objects will be drawn, storied and shared. Students will have the opportunity to experiment with different drawing materials such as charcoal, acrylics, water colours and the morning sessions will explore three different locations at the University. The University is a place with many gardens and the students will be able to take time and explore, look and think about plants and trees and how nature informs and inspires us. The students are asked to bring a journal and a favourite pen/pencil to write with and will be introduced to the idea of journaling, drawing and writing. The students will be offered the opportunity to story, write and create in a safe, inclusive space where all ideas are welcomed and celebrated. Presented by Dr Sarah Jane Moore

Have you ever wondered about how the different parts of your brain work? In this program, students will learn about the roles of each part of the brain. As they discover each part’s function, they will also build this part of the brain and engage in an experiment to further understand its function. As each piece is built, the students will connect their parts of the brain together, ending with a complete model of the brain. 

For this program, students are required to bring a computer, tablet or ipad. If your child does not have a device, please email gerric@unsw.edu.au to request one. Presented by Raquel Grammat.

Have you ever wanted to travel the galaxies, meet dinosaurs, or delve into the depths of the sea all without leaving your home? Welcome to ‘The Futuristic Worlds of Science Fiction’, where we break down everything you need to know to get you started on a fantastic voyage into a genre which is commonly misunderstood and feared by many. Presented by Helen Kizi.

Develop an understanding of the characteristics of special classes or sets of numbers, including primes, powers, irrational numbers and others. Draw fractal patterns based on an understanding of the iterative rules in fractal formation. Apply an understanding of simple geometric principles shapes to more complex shapes in 3+D. Engage with some of the ideas, conjectures and theories being studied in the discipline of Pure Mathematics. Presented by Daniel Judd.

Use theatre games to ignite your brain! In these face-to-face workshops, you will learn a range of fun improvised Drama games which align to cognitive processes and divergent thinking techniques. Use your multiple intelligences and general knowledge to create short scenes and build vivid memories of key concepts. This workshop will help you develop 21st century skills including critical thinking, creative thinking, communication, collaboration, teamwork and social skills. Presented by Alastair Tomkins

Why did a letter from a scientist, written in 1953, sell for 5.3 million dollars in 2013? Who was behind an inspirational letter to Roald Dahl in 1989 that led him to write a best seller? And in 1610, what strange and powerful new invention did Galileo Galilei describe in a letter? Extraordinary epistles in literature and from the living have communicated ideas and information for centuries, covering every topic and genre. What will your imagination deliver in this challenging creative thinking and writing program? Let letters lead you to sensational story ideas and develop your skills as a writer. Students will also have a chance to send and receive mail through the UNSW post office. Presented by Andrea Blake. 

Do you have what it takes to make it in the business world? In this workshop, you will discover how some of the world’s most powerful people made it to the top and how to turn a great idea into a great career. We will explore the different ways that people earn money and how businesses operate. You will then come up with your own business idea and develop you persuasive writing, speaking and leadership skills by learning the art of advertising and bringing your idea to life. Presented by Michael Graham. 

Think of your favourite movie. If it had no sound or music, would it still have the same impact on you? Film music and cinematic sounds enhance character, create mood and heighten emotion in films. A soundscape can make or break a film. In this workshop, you will explore the work of film score composers, Foley artists, and the impact technology has had on the history of film music. Using computer software, you will learn to produce and arrange sounds, compose and record music, synchronize sounds to video, and create a film score soundtrack. Film composers of the future, come on down! Presented by Rodney and Anthea Wikstrom

Have you ever wondered how our brains work? What makes you ‘you’? What motivates us to do well? What causes us to feel stress? What are emotions and how do we recognise them? Do animals speak? What does it mean to think differently and how can this be a superpower? This workshop aims to explore the foundations of psychology as a science of mind and behaviour and engage with some challenging, reflective and engaging questions about who we are, how we think and how we can use this knowledge to do well, collaborate and value our differences as superpowers. Understanding how our brains work is at the centre of this journey as we delve into topics such as neurodiversity, optical illusions, the minds of prodigies, geniuses and ground-breaking discoveries. We also debate the role of artificial intelligence and how this may impact psychology in the future, with a focus on robotics and cognitive implants. As we gain more understanding through discussions, games and research projects, we actively reflect on the ways this knowledge can help us become more informed, resilient and develop our strengths to learn more effectively, excel in school and develop confidence in our unique gifts and talents. Presented by Dr Maja Milatovic

There are many theories about the true origins of the mythical city of Atlantis. One of the most well-known is that the real Atlantis was on the island of Ancient Thera (Santorini) which was destroyed in a volcano around 1500 BCE. Students will read Plato's original account and then use research skills to draw conclusions on the big question, creating a product of their choice to present their learning. Presented by Bridget Martin

This program paints science in a new light to show students its relevance in the information age we live in. Together, we explore how we can apply the scientific method to our everyday lives to promote critical thinking, skepticism, and creativity. The program will traverse a diverse range of topics including pseudoscience, ethics, psychology and philosophy, neuroscience, and the intersection of science with society. Presented by Onur Tangley

Through this workshop, you will learn concepts and principles for designing Virtual Reality (VR) content. It will involve experiencing VR with current technology and creating your own VR prototypes. You will learn about immersive technologies, design processes, storytelling and more, getting you started as an immersive experience designer for the future metaverse.Presented by Dean Utian

Mythic fiction is literature that draws from the tropes, themes, and symbolism of myth, legend, folklore, and fairy tales. Students will respond to short stories, films and extracts which reflect a wide range of cultural interpretations of fantasy, myth and legend. Presented by Helen Kizi

Cosmology is the study of the origin, nature, evolution and large-scale structure of our Universe, encompassing literally everything from stars and galaxies to space and time itself. This workshop will deep dive into the ideas and concepts in cosmological thought, covering astronomy, astrophysics, history, the theories of relativity and quantum mechanics, and explore particle and nuclear physics. No prerequisite knowledge of mathematics or physics is required other than a general interest in space and astronomy. Please note while there are some activities, cosmology is after all a theoretical field! Students should expect a predominantly lecture format over the three days. Presented by Carl Gibbs

Over the course of 3 days we will firstly be looking at the structure and function of the normal brain and spinal cord, before moving on to consider types of disease which can affect the brain and spinal cord. You will have lots of opportunity to practice clinical examination of the nervous system on your fellow students and we will be thinking about how brain disease or damage might be prevented or repaired. Presented by Dr Kenneth Ashwell

Albert Einstein once said, If I had an hour to solve a problem, I'd spend 55 minutes thinking about the problem and 5 minutes thinking about solutions. Have you ever been stuck on a math problem then had it explained to you and thought How did they think of that?! Are you curious why some people seem to think so clearly? In this workshop we'll make sense of difficult problems by thinking logically and rationally. Presented by Victor Jauregui

Develop and apply good writing practices to more complex forms of writing. Experiment with different non-traditional approaches to writing, such as interactive or CYOA-style writing. Develop and apply some simple programming techniques to augment written work.

For this program, students are required to bring a computer, tablet or ipad. If your child does not have a device, please email gerric@unsw.edu.au to request one. Presented by Daniel Judd

Tickets can be purchased on the GERRIC Student Programs Eventbrite page. Tickets will be released to the general public on Friday, October 20.  A reminder email will be sent to all subscribers on our mailing list. 

• GERRIC Student Programs Online | $250.00

• GERRIC Scientia Challenge Years 7-10 | $425.00

• GERRIC Junior Years 3-6 | $425.00

Once you purchase your ticket on the GERRIC Student Programs Eventbrite page, you will receive a confirmation email from Eventbrite with a link to Qualtrics survey where you submit the gifted criteria. 

Please ensure you complete all required questions.

We use this information to ensure your child meets eligibility requirements for gifted learning. All documents will be treated as confidential and will be deleted after the January programs. 

Please note due to high volumes and demand for our popular Student Programs, some sessions may sell out.

If you would like to be on the wait list, please fill out your details here.

Should programs spots become available, one of the GERRIC team will be in contact with you about availability. GERRIC will only offer wait-list tickets to individuals who have registered using this form. 

To cancel your ticket, please email us at gerric@unsw.edu.au.

A change of program may be allowed if space is available, however, changes must me requested before December 1st and must be in writing by email us at gerric@unsw.edu.au.

A change of program will not be allowed during the event, except in exceptional circumstances. 

In this case, you will be offered the option to enrol your child in another course or receive a refund. A member of the GERRIC team will be in contact with you to discuss options. 

In this case, we may request additional documentation or offer you a refund. All applications are reviewed on a case by case basis. 

GERRIC welcomes all gifted learners and aims to create an inclusive space. In the ticket, there is an opportunity to share your specific need with us. If you would like to share more details, please email gerric@unsw.edu.au and include the child’s full name and ticket number. 

If you travelling to Sydney for GERRIC Student Programs. Please email gerric@unsw.edu.au for discounts for nearby accommodation.