School Journey - Gifted and Talented Students
The definition of "gifted"
High achievers can be perceived as different
Many schools have programs for gifted children
There are particular groups of children who require specific types of education programs. These are known as the gifted and talented.
Talents may lie in a variety of areas – sports, music, science, art. Giftedness is traditionally defined as having an Intelligence Quotient (IQ) higher than 130. The levels of giftedness are defined as:
Mildly Gifted: IQ 115 - 129
Moderately Gifted: IQ 130 - 144
Highly Gifted: IQ 145 - 159
Exceptionally Gifted: IQ 160 - 179
Profoundly Gifted: IQ 180+
Giftedness is an intellectual capacity beyond that expected for the chronological age of the child. Intellectual development is very rapid while physical, social and emotional skills may develop above, below or at the age-expected level.
When a child’s talent is music or sport-related, it can be channelled more easily (special academies or high schools) and children with these talents are often feted. Many also have exceptional talents in more than one area. Very high intellectual achievers can be perceived as “different” due to age-related expectations causing problems in relating to teachers and the child’s peers. They often have highly developed sensory perceptions as well and may sometimes exhibit behaviour that seems odd to people who are not familiar with gifted children.
This is why most parents with gifted children seek schools with a commitment to the social, emotional and intellectual needs of these children. There are many of these schools, both government and non-government, across Australia. The schools have guidelines and assessment procedures for entry beginning with gifted pre-school children through to senior school level. Queensland, for instance has several government-funded academies for gifted and talented children from Years 10 to 12.
Schools that accept gifted and talented students have policies that acknowledge the particular traits of this group. The curriculum is tailored to their needs and high personal achievement is expected and rewarded with the full cooperation of the principal, staff and school community.
Recommended websites:
The Australian Association for the Education of the the Gifted and Talented Ltd's website www.aaegt.net.au has links to state-based associations and other organisations with helpful information for parents and carers with gifted and talented children.
Original Author: Libby Harkness- 2008/09
Last Update 30th Sept 2009: ASI Editorial Team
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