The Swot Shop

Galileo's Gang

Galileo's Gang is designed to cater for those with intellectual talent. The programme aims to provide social, recreational and intellectual opportunities through extension and enrichment activities.

Galileo's Gang operates at three levels - Junior, Intermediate and Senior. The programme is skills-based rather than knowledge-based and is designed to

enhance thinking skills in logic, strategy, memory, analysis, critical and visual thinking.

increase literary and language skills.

improve research skills.

foster an appreciation of learning enquiry and academic excellence.

Teaching techniques use instruction, discussion, discovery, debate and co-operative problem solving. Many of the aims of the programme can be met using puzzles, games, quizzes, competitions and fun-type activities in an environment far less formal than a structured school setting. The programme includes special annual events as well as internal and external competitions for essay writing, chess, public speaking, general knowledge quizzes, maths, English and science.

The programme encourages students to develop a love of learning and positive attitudes to intellectual pursuits through inspirational teaching and the influence of committed peers. Entry to Galileo's Gang is determined by assessment test score. Promotion from one level to another is influenced by progress, age, maturity, self-esteem and previous exposure to thinking skills. When staff determine that a student needs a greater challenge then upward movement is recommended.