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Media Release
Progressing the Education of Gifted and Talented Students
27 September 2006
Today the Minister for Education, Science and Training, the Hon Julie Bishop MP announced two new key initiatives at the opening of the11th Biennial Conference of the Australian Association for the Education of the Gifted and Talented.
“The common belief that the gifted students do not need special help because they will succeed anyway, is contradicted by many studies of underachievement and a lack of motivation among gifted children,” Minister Bishop said.
“When the special needs of gifted children are not met, this can result in underachievement, boredom, frustration and psychological distress. Gifted children from lower socio-economic circumstances may suffer and not fulfil their potential because they may not be identified as gifted.
“In response to these concerns I am announcing today that the Australian Government has allocated $200,000 to commence in 2007, for the provision of further professional development in Gifted Education for teachers.
“In addition, I am investigating the establishment of a National Centre of Excellence in Gifted Education, which would concentrate resources, coordinate and assist with further initiatives, promote a consistent definition and approach to gifted education, and undertake more Australian-based research.
Currently the Australian Government has invested $3.2 million for key activities running nationally to improve the education of gifted students.
This funding includes:
- $2.3 million for the development and national delivery of professional learning materials;
- grants of $10,000 each to assist teacher education faculties in universities to acquire expertise in gifted education; and
- $550,000 for over 50 workshops for parents of gifted children in regional areas.
“I am delighted to open today’s conference as this is an important opportunity to create greater awareness of gifted education, we need to ensure teachers can recognise and are able to support gifted students so they have the opportunity to achieve their potential,” Minister Bishop said.
Media Contacts:
Minister Bishop’s Office: Tory Vidler 0414 228 727
Dept of Education, Science & Training: Media Unit 02 6240 7300
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