Some children excel in particular areas, learn faster than others or have high potential but are underachieving. This is often called ‘gifted and talented’ but schools could use a variety of different terms. These might include: more able and talented, academically more able, able or gifted. Find out how to identify if your child is gifted and talented, and what extra educational support is available.
What ‘gifted and talented’ means
‘Gifted and talented’ describes children and young people with an ability to develop to a level significantly ahead of their year group (or with the potential to develop those abilities):
‘gifted’ learners are those who have abilities in one or more academic subjects, like maths and English
‘talented’ learners are those who have practical skills in areas like sport, music, design or creative and performing arts
Skills like leadership, decision-making and organization are also taken into account when identifying and providing for gifted and talented children.
Identifying gifted and talented children
If you think your child is gifted or talented, you should first discuss their abilities and needs with your child’s teacher or headteacher. Some schools have a Gifted and Talented Education co-ordinator whom you could speak to as well. Local authorities may also have a Gifted and Talented lead.
Schools will identify children based on evidence including test results, quality of work and the views of teachers and parents.
Many schools maintain a register of their gifted and talented children. Usually children will move on and off their school’s register over time – especially in primary schools – as they develop at different rates to their peers.
By: Jasmin N. Barbosa, Tomas Pinpin Memorial Elem School
