Is your child gifted and talented?
The DCFS definition applies the word 'gifted' to those pupils who show exceptional ability in any national curriculum subject except art, PE or music. The word 'talented' identifies pupils who excel in those 3 subjects.

The National Strategy defines gifted and talented pupils as those in the top 10% of every cohort. Basically this means that these terms are to be applied relatively rather than absolutely so that all schools are expected to identify their top 10% of achievers and make differentiated provision for them. The majority of schools have always done this but most probably referred to this group of pupils as 'more able' rather than 'gifted and talented'. Many schools still prefer to use the term ‘more able’.
 
What can you expect from your child's school?
If you think your child is gifted or talented then do talk to your school about this and together you can decide how best to celebrate and cultivate their abilities. Cambridgeshire schools have been praised for the creative and effective way they meet the needs of able pupils and this is an area of practice we are constantly developing. In 2007/8 all schools in Cambridgeshire were invited to send a representative to be trained in making provision for gifted and talented learners, so every school will now have a named teacher for this area of their work.

Cambridgeshire County Council believes that all children and young people within our community have equal rights to the opportunities offered by education.

This includes the right to:

• access high-quality educational experience
• to participate in a broad and balanced curriculum
• be part of the social life of school.

Human differences are normal and the rich contribution that difference and diversity makes to our schools is welcomed. To maximise this contribution, educational approaches must be adapted to the needs of the individual.
We seek the participation of all students in learning which leads to the highest possible level of achievement and personal fulfillment.
An inclusive school expects all students within its community to be educated alongside each other. It sees the diverse needs of students as a rich vein of opportunity to develop its approaches to teaching and learning and thereby achieve excellence for all learners.

We believe that children and young people can only demonstrate their abilities if they are given opportunities to do so. the involvement of parents and students in a partnership to support learning is crucial in determining educational outcomes.

How can you help develop your child's potential?
There are a number of helpful websites that provide support and ideas. Use the link on the right hand side to access them.