Schools let gifted children down

GIFTED children are in danger of dropping out early because schools are ill-equipped to help them, an expert has warned.

Irish Centre for Talented Youth (CTYI) director Sheila Gilheany estimates up to 23,000 people fall into the category of gifted children.

But they need assistance and extra resources at primary and second level to help them achieve their potential, she said.

“If school work doesn’t challenge them enough, they can become frustrated. They can also feel isolated and not want to go to school,” she said.

“There is a risk of children dropping out of school because they become so demoralised by the age of 15 or 16.”

In a submission to the Oireachtas Education Committee last week, Ms Gilheany recommended specific teacher training courses, dedicated school policy and systematic talent identification methods for schools.

Based at Dublin City University, the CTYI works with about 2,500 children every year. It provides weekend, summer and correspondence courses.