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South Australia Specialized Programs
Complete guide to Adelaide's 3 IGNITE schools (Aberfoyle Park, The Heights, Glenunga International), plus STEM programs, Summit Program, and Astra Program.
You can ONLY apply to ONE IGNITE school per application cycle. This is a strict ACER rule. When registering, you must select your preferred school: Aberfoyle Park, The Heights, or Glenunga. You cannot submit multiple applications or change your school selection after submission.
💡 Choose carefully based on: location/commute, school culture, cohort size, percentile requirements, and your child's learning style.
Detailed comparison of Glenunga International, The Heights, and Aberfoyle Park IGNITE programs with locations, competition levels, and selection criteria.
Glenunga, eastern suburbs (5km east of Adelaide CBD)
Annual Intake
100 students annually (largest cohort)
Competition Level
85th-90th+ percentile typically needed
Established
2010
Program Approach:
Dual pathways: Accelerated (content-focused) or Extension (process-focused)
Commute Times from Major Areas:
Excellent public transport: Multiple bus routes, close to CBD
Key Strengths:
Best For: Students who thrive in larger peer group with pathway flexibility
Modbury Heights, northeastern suburbs (15km northeast of CBD)
Annual Intake
60 students annually (selective)
Competition Level
85th+ percentile typically needed
Established
2010 (DE Special Interest School)
Program Approach:
Special Interest School designation with integrated gifted education
Commute Times from Major Areas:
Good public transport: O-Bahn to Modbury + feeder buses
Key Strengths:
Best For: Students who prefer smaller class sizes and close teacher relationships
Aberfoyle Park, southern suburbs (20km south of CBD)
Annual Intake
Flexible intake (not hard-capped)
Competition Level
75th-85th+ percentile competitive
Established
Long-established IGNITE program
Program Approach:
Integrated curriculum with music specialization
Commute Times from Major Areas:
Bus routes from southern suburbs, limited from north
Key Strengths:
Best For: Musically-inclined students or those wanting integrated arts + academics
Comprehensive overview of all three IGNITE programs in South Australia, helping you choose the best fit for your child.
IGNITE Program
Explore human survival needs and community structures
Investigate Earth's composition and geological processes
Two-year program with instrument learning
IGNITE Program
Comprehensive evaluation in late February
Students can access accelerated learning
Maximum 60 students per year level
IGNITE Program
Fast-paced curriculum with deep thinking focus
Rigorous exploration with moderate pacing
Consistent mentor groups from Years 7-9
| Factor | Aberfoyle Park High School | The Heights School | Glenunga International High School |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intake Size | Open (zone-free) | 60 students | 100 students |
| Assessment Type | HAST + Video | ACER IGNITE (3-5hrs) | HAST (Standard) |
| Special Features | Music Program | Small Classes | Dual Pathways |
| Application Fee | Varies | $145 ($125 refund) | $155 ($130 refund) |
Get expert guidance on selecting the best program for your child, including IGNITE, STEM, Summit, and Astra, and start your preparation journey today.
Prepare your child for the future with South Australia's premier STEM education programs. Expert preparation for Norwood International High School STEM and Adelaide Botanic High School Health & Sciences Pathways programs.
Complete integration of Science, Mathematics, and Technologies across Years 7-9
Learning from passionate educators and industry experts with real-world applications
Reading Comprehension, Mathematical Reasoning, and Abstract Reasoning components
HAST Assessment (mandatory)
Video Application (2 minutes max)
Five key questions addressing STEM experience
Selective Entry
Years 7-9 Program
Highly competitive program for students outside school zone
Direct connections with University of Adelaide and research facilities
Student-driven investigation and discovery across STEM disciplines
Opens: December, 2025
Closes: February, 2026
HAST Date: March, 2026
20 Positions
Years 7-12 Pathway
Develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation skills essential for 21st-century careers
Access to specialized curriculum and industry connections that prepare students for tertiary education
Stand out in highly competitive STEM program applications with expert preparation
Elevate your child's academic journey with Unley High School's prestigious Summit Program. A comprehensive enrichment and extension program designed for high-ability learners from Years 7-10, focusing on 21st-century skills and global citizenship.
Specialized programs for English, Humanities, Mathematics, and Science
Students drive their own learning through questioning and investigation
Development of critical thinking skills for complex real-world challenges
Differentiated curriculum with integrated learning
Collaborative learning opportunities
Advanced problem-solving skills development
Years 7-10
Merit-Based Selection
Consistent high achievement across multiple subject areas
Professional assessments of student capabilities and potential
Comprehensive assessment of academic potential and readiness
Applications for 2026 Year 7 entry have closed
Contact the school for information about future application cycles
Holistic Assessment
Well-Rounded Development
Enhanced academic outcomes consistent with student abilities and potential
Focus on wellbeing alongside academic achievement and leadership skills
Skills and capabilities for rapidly changing, interconnected world
Students drive their own learning through questioning and investigation, developing critical thinking and research skills.
Emphasis on teamwork and peer learning opportunities to develop communication and leadership skills.
Advanced problem-solving skills for complex real-world challenges and analytical thinking.
Students become leaders of their own learning and contribute meaningfully to school community.
Unlock your child's exceptional potential with Woodville High School's comprehensive Astra Program. A four-pillar framework designed for highly able learners, serving students in the top 10% of their peers with personalized learning pathways and specialized support.
Specifically designed for students with exceptional academic abilities
Curriculum adaptation based on student readiness, interests, and learning profiles
Dedicated Astra Leader and specialized monitoring systems for student success
Recognizes varying abilities across domains
Supports twice-exceptional learners
Nurtures natural abilities into developed competencies
Years 7-12
Top 10% Focus
Personalized learning with curriculum adaptation, content modification, and flexible progression
Deeper learning experiences, project-based learning, and external opportunities
Critical thinking focus, advanced content, and independent learning development
Subject-based and whole-grade acceleration with individualized pacing
Dedicated program coordinator providing specialized guidance and support
Subject-specific support for academic development and growth
Regular assessment through school reporting and targeted meetings
Access to homework centers and comprehensive wellbeing team
High Academic Performance
Maintain excellent academic standards
Exemplary Behavior
Demonstrate outstanding personal conduct
Continuous Application
Sustained effort and commitment to studies
Flexible Acceleration
Subject-based and whole-grade options
Passion Pursuit
Deep exploration of areas of strength
Support Systems
Comprehensive monitoring and assistance
Program continuation is conditional based on meeting performance expectations. Regular formal review processes ensure students maintain the high standards required for continued participation in the Astra Program.
Use our school selection guide and preparation strategies to make the best choice for your child's IGNITE journey.
Everything you need to master the HAST test and secure your place in Adelaide's IGNITE programs. Follow our proven 7-step preparation journey.
Complete HAST test breakdown for IGNITE programs with detailed component analysis
Proven preparation timelines and strategies for IGNITE program success
HAST format practice tests and comprehensive study materials for all IGNITE schools
Everything you need for a successful IGNITE HAST test day experience
Understanding IGNITE results, offers, and application timelines
30+ comprehensive answers about IGNITE program preparation and application
Join 500+ successful Adelaide families who prepared with BrainTree Coaching. Get instant access to our complete IGNITE preparation packs and expert coaching.