Your letters and responses to the last issue

Last issue's article on the Gifted & Talented programme prompted a few responses from readers

Not so gifted?

Dear Editor

What a great idea this 'Gifted and Talented' scheme is! As I understand it, we give the pupils a test when they enter the school (just after age 11, I think), and those who pass, benefit from lessons with their peers, rather than with those who are not so gifted or talented. I wonder why no-one thought of this idea before. I have a further thought — as this is so good for them, it would obviously be even better for them to have all their lessons like this. Perhaps we could set up a pilot school on this basis — I wonder what we would call such a school?
John Duffield

Dear Editor

So kids on the G&T register find it enjoyable and helpful do they? Well there's a surprise! They have access to enrichment activities that are denied to other pupils, no matter how well they behave or how hard they try. What do you say to a hard-working Year 8 girl who says, "Miss, I really wanted to go to the giant insects workshop today, but I'm not clever enough". Other 'perks' have included free activity weekends in the Lakes and theatre visits to Stratford. The criteria for inclusion should be good attendance, good behaviour, good citizenship — anything but natural ability (which can be developed and nurtured within the normal timetable). There is no equality of opportunity in this divisive initiative.
Name supplied

DfES response: These letters re-cycle two old myths concerning support to gifted and talented pupils. Please let me assure readers that the scheme is not about selection, and it is not a case of children not meeting the criteria being neglected or losing out on activities or opportunities.

We want all schools to challenge and support all pupils, including those who are gifted and talented, which is why we are working with schools to place a new emphasis on personalised learning, where all aspects of teaching, the curriculum and school organisation will target the needs, motivation and learning styles of individual pupils and will enable all children to fulfil their potential.

Many gifted and talented pupils currently succeed despite their education rather than because of it, and many more are never identified. We need to do more to unlock these children's potential particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Kelly holmes — a real inspiration

Dear Editor

Very pleased to read about Kelly Holmes taking on the role of School Sport Champion. How can
I contact her to invite her to our prize day in July?
Mike Meaton, headteacher

Editor's response: Please send your requests to Kelly Holmes via: Emma Harraden, Youth Sport Trust, First Floor, Collier Street, London N1 9BD or email emma.harraden@youthsporttrust.org

Puzzles Please!

Dear Editor

As a Family Learning tutor working with a range of ages and abilities, I saw the Solve or Share wordclock puzzle in the Staffroom section of last issue and decided to use it as a resource. I printed it off and tried it with a group of second language mums — the task was very useful. I am always looking for ideas for something to capture parents' interests in literacy or numeracy, and would be very grateful for any others anybody could suggest!
Leila Bradley

This content was published in May 2006 and may not reflect current policy