In this communication our aim is to bring you information about MindPlus programmes in action, about gifted children, to share resources which teachers may find useful in catering for these children in their own classrooms, and to update you about what is happening in the world of gifted education.
At NZCGE we describe a gifted child as one who has innate high abilities in relation to their same-age peers, in one or more domains (intellectual, creative, social, cultural, physical, technological). We know that these abilities and related qualities may be shown through outstanding achievement or may be seen as potential, noticed through conversation, observation, behavioural characteristics and out-of-school work. We also know that whilst some gifted children display their gifts very obviously, and some do not and, for a range of reasons, stay ‘hidden’. This means it is difficult for all of those involved in supporting the child to develop ways and means to meet their unique needs.
Section 2: Practical Classroom Strategies for Twice-Exceptional Learners
Twice-exceptional learners are those who are gifted AND have an additional exceptionality. As mentioned earlier, these students can often ‘hide’ their giftedness, or can use their giftedness to ‘hide’ their other exceptionality. Exceptionalities including dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, ADHD, Autism
Spectrum Disorder (formerly called Aspergers), physical or sensory impairments or anxiety, can all co-exist with giftedness.
We are pleased to let you know that entry to all MindPlus programmes remains open until Friday, 3rd December. Due to current Covid19 restrictions, we are unable to hold face-to-face entry workshops and we are therefore modifying our application process
slightly. In the application process we are looking for evidence of intellectual and/or creative abilities and for children who need intellectual and/or creative stretch and will benefit from social and emotional learning and support for their gifted-related challenges, and whose strengths we can help develop in our setting.
We know that MindPlus programmes are one great way that teachers and schools can build some extra support around their gifted learners. Our programmes use our specialist, purpose-built curriculum which focuses on developing children’s growth as conceptual thinkers, their understanding of themselves as gifted people, and furthering development of children’s
interests and talents.
Gifted NEX is a Network of Expertise supporting teachers in all things gifted. The network links teachers with teachers, with specialists in the field, and with resources to support gifted learners.With currently 1250+ members it reaches from the far North to the far South
What do we look like:
Currently 79% of our members are in the North Island
Auckland represents 30% and Wellington and Christchurch 15% each.
20% are in leadership and/or management roles
Almost 50% are in some area of learning support (LSC, RTLB, SENCO, Specialist teacher)
30% state they are absolutely new to gifted education
What's happened lately?
We held our first online Symposium with an impressive 526 registrations. Dr Melinda Webber, Dr Welby Ings and Dr Tracy Riley all brought different perspectives of giftedness and gifted learners to
our attention. 97% of those who attended found it an excellent or very good experience, and even better from our perspective, 90% attended all 3 webinars.
"This symposium was really insightful and helpful. High quality presentations from knowledgeable, articulate and interesting
presenters. Thank you so much for organising. This is a good format and would work well in future"
