Galileo’s Gang is a unique program designed by The Swot Shop to stimulate students’ higher level thinking and problem solving skills. This program is so much more than a tutoring or coaching program. It is an engaging and tactile educational course, encompassing elements of English, Maths and Science and provides challenging academic talent development opportunities. We cultivate this through targeted extension and enrichment activities for children who are gifted or have high academic potential.

Galileo’s Gang is our flagship program and operates at three levels – Junior (Year 2), Intermediate (Years 3-4) and Senior (Years 5-6).

The program is skills-based rather than knowledge-based. Outcomes sought through the program:

• Enhance students’ thinking skills in logic, strategy, memory, analysis, critical and visual thinking.
• Develop students’ skills across English, Maths and Science.
• Increase literary and language skills.
• Develop and improve research skills.
• Foster an appreciation of learning enquiry and academic excellence.
• Build self-confidence and resilience through appropriate intellectual challenges in a supportive group environment.

Teaching techniques use instruction, discussion, discovery, debate and co-operative problem solving. Many of the aims of the program can be met using puzzles, games, quizzes, competitions and fun-type activities in an environment far less formal than a structured school setting. The program includes internal competitions for creative writing, chess, public speaking, general knowledge quizzes, Maths, English and Science.

The program encourages students to develop a love of learning and positive attitudes to intellectual pursuits through inspirational teaching and the influence of committed peers.

Promotion from one level to another is influenced by progress, age, maturity, self-esteem and previous exposure to thinking skills. When it is determined that a student needs a greater challenge, upward movement to the next level in the program is recommended.

Educational Principles

More than any other Swot Shop program, our educational principles are reflected in the Galileo Program. Here, student talent is developed through:

• Personalised Learning Environments: Small class sizes enable peer engagement but at the same time personalised monitoring and instruction, ensuring that learning is as impactful as possible.
• Strategic Grouping for Progress: Optimal learning is achieved when students are placed in groups that reflect a narrow range of ability levels, while also considering age to ensure the appropriateness of content. This tailored approach encourages students to stretch their capabilities and meet high expectations.
• High Expectations: Our qualified teachers and curriculum designers hold unwavering high expectations for our students, believing firmly that children will ascend to meet these challenges with enthusiasm and determination.
• Expert-Prepared Programs: By utilising programs meticulously prepared by experts, our qualified teachers can dedicate their full attention to delivering lessons effectively, enriching the educational experience with their expertise and passion.
• The Joy of Learning: We strive to make learning an engaging, enjoyable experience. Our aim is for students to pursue knowledge not for external rewards, but for the intrinsic joy and personal fulfilment it brings.
• Developing Informed Citizens: It is essential for students to emerge as well-informed individuals, capable of forming their own opinions on a myriad of subjects and respecting diverse viewpoints. This forms the foundation of a tolerant, open-minded society.

Entry Requirements

To be admitted to the Galileo’s Gang program students sit an entry test. It is suitable for allrounders who will enjoy and benefit from the challenging and diverse nature of the course. Entry to Galileo’s Gang is determined by assessment test score. Students must achieve strong academic entry test results in English and Maths to be admitted.

New to The Swot Shop? Enrol with confidence.
We offer a 7-day money-back guarantee because we believe in the quality of our programs.

If you would like more information about the program prior to enrolling, please contact us on (02) 9634 2000 or via this form.