A Short History and Aims and Objectives

The Connections program commenced from Woodleigh Junior School, Minimbah, in 1988. 
The aim of the program was to provide enrichment classes to bright children in areas of their
interest and to support teachers in challenging their top academic students.

In 1992 the Federal Government provided $1 m. around Australia to support programs for gifted students.  The Minimbah model, expanded to support parents and teachers as well as students,
was one of 30 programs funded in this initiative.  This program operated on the Peninsula, in St. Kilda, Springvale and Caulfield. 

The program was so successful that it was funded again in l993 as the only program, apart from State Government programs, funded in both years.  All funding ceased after 1993. 

By this time Connections had a very strong following from schools on the Peninsula and it was written up as a model for use throughout Victoria.  As funding had ceased a small committee
formed on the Peninsula to continue the program as a self funded operation.

Any surplus funds from this self funded operation were made available to assist teachers wanting
to learn more about teaching gifted children. 

The basic aim of the program remains unchanged from 1998, i.e., supporting teachers in the
difficult task of challenging gifted children in a busy classroom. This should include the top two
or three academic children in each class. 

There are 80+ schools on the mailing list covering State, Private and Catholic schools from Sorrento to Frankston.  Most schools support the program.  Approximately 700 - 800 children participate in either Term 2 and Term 3 programs or both!

The fees cover administration, emailing/mailing and photocopying, tutor and co-ordinator fees and incidentals.  This fee is kept to a minimum.  In the main everybody is a winner. Nominated children enjoy the challenge and teachers and co-ordinators are paid a fair fee. It does not work perfectly but throughout Australia it is regarded as the best after school support program for gifted children.