More Able
GIFTED & TALENTED
More Able representative: Senior Link – Mr J Simmons
Simmons.j2@thecoleshillschool.org
What does More Able Mean?
The DfE and Ofsted define the Most Able in terms of those students ‘whose progress and attainment significantly exceed age-related expectations’.
Students who show a high level of flair and aptitude in their work at The Coleshill School are identified as Higher Achieving Pupils (HAP).
These learners are identified on a yearly basis by the Head of Achievement and Assistant Headteacher and/or on a permanent basis by various forms of data.
If your son/daughter is identified as ‘High Achieving Pupil’, this means they are either already achieving a high level of success or demonstrating potential. We hope they will make good use of the opportunities for challenge in lessons and widen their experience by taking part in the extra-curricular activities.
Although it may be assumed that all Most Able students will achieve success in the education system easily, this is not always the case. Appropriate support of teachers, parents/carers and peers together is needed.
At The Coleshill School, our aim is to ensure the provision of opportunities to boost the attainment, motivation and self-confidence of all students. We provide this in a number of ways:
- Differentiated lessons
- Extra-curricular activities
- Student Leadership
- Educational opportunities, visits and trips
We are dedicated to ensuring that all students achieve their aspirational targets. However, we recognise that some students have exceptional potential and benefit from additional input to ensure they aware of their potential and the opportunities that potential offers.
At The Coleshill School, HAP students are offered a wealth of extra-curricular opportunities. Students are surveyed to find their needs and interests, and, in recent years, this has resulted in visits to universities; debates run by sixth form students; specialist sessions delivered by college lecturers and industry leads.
What is the ‘Climb to 9’ programme?
Additionally, HAP students have the opportunity to partake in the ‘CLIMB TO 9’ enrichment programme at KS4. This is a bespoke programme which is specifically designed to enrich and extend the educational experience and outcomes of our more able learners, ensuring they make outstanding progress and broaden their cultural capital.
What will the programme involve:
- One 20-minute session per week from a subject specialist on a rota basis explaining top tips – Subjects include Maths, English, Science and Humanities.
- A booklet containing key information from each subject on how to obtain a grade 7-9
- Bespoke invite only sessions from subject leaders modelling grade 9 answers.
- A 6th Form Mentor who has experience of achieving grades 7+
- Guest Speakers and Careers events focussed on post 16 options.
- 6th Form Taster workshops & the opportunity to take part in a 6th form debate
- Industry Speakers
- Opportunity to join the Coleshill Scholars Programme
How has my son/daughter been selected for ‘Climb to 9’?
Students are selected for the More Able program by either teacher nomination or through the use of school data. Students who are selected will then be included on the school’s More Able Register.
If my child is More Able, what provision is in place to support them in lower school?
At Coleshill we aim to meet the educational needs of all our pupils. For the More Able student, this includes providing opportunities both in and out of the classroom
In-class provision includes:
- Tasks which demand higher order cognitive and intellectual skills to challenge pupils
- More complex and open-ended tasks and flexible learning strategies
- Competitions such as the UK maths challenge
Out of class provision includes:
- Lunchtime and after-school clubs (STEM club, Maths Club, etc…)
- Visits to events including university master classes, taster days and residentials (we are currently working with Aim Higher Plus to create a program of free enrichment activities with the focus of raising aspirations)
- Peer mentoring from sixth form students
How can I support my child?
- Encourage a variety of interests and activities
- Help your child to organise their time
- Encourage use of local facilities such as the library
- Organise visits to museums, science centres and art galleries
- Encourage discussion and debate in the home
- Demonstrate pride in achievement
- Help your child to discover how fun learning can be
- Show sensitivity to your child’s interests without trying to mould them
- Include your child in family decision-making
- Show the importance of relaxation, socialising and exercise
- Encourage your child to use the department specific websites
Useful Links:
National Association for Gifted Children – practical tools and courses to help you develop your child’s gifts and talents.
National Association for Able Children in Education – independent education organisation specialising in teaching and learning for able, gifted and talented students.BBC Schools homepage – learning resources for home and school.
