More Able Students

More Able students (formerly known as 'Gifted and Talented') have been defined as those students who have one or more abilities developed to a level significantly ahead of their year group.  Talented pupils demonstrate a talent or skill in creative or sporting fields in and/or out of school.

The More Able are a diverse group and their range of attainment will be varied; some do well in statutory national curriculum tests or national qualifications.

However, being More Able covers much more than the ability to succeed in tests and examinations.

 

How does the academy identify More Able students?

Our More Able students are identified on entry to the academy using information held by primary schools about that student’s learning and achievements in Key Stage 2. We use this information to make sure we provide students with the right level of challenge. Our More Able students will be identified on entry by:

 

  • having a Key Stage 2 fine score in Maths and English of level 5.4 or above

OR

  • having a Key Stage 2 score in Maths and English of level 5.0 or above if they are a Pupil Premium student

OR

  • having a CATS test score in the top 10% nationally

OR

  • showing exceptional attainment in a range of subjects in the first term of Year 7.

 

More Able students are identified and placed on the academy’s More Able register.

The register is reviewed and updated regularly during the academic year, based on hard and soft data. Most Able students are not removed from the list if underperforming, instead additional intervention is agreed for these students. Pupil Premium grant money is allocated for this where students are eligible.

We have developed a culture of high expectations for students and teachers so that the quality of curriculum delivery, teaching and assessment in both foundation and core subjects is high. This begins with identification based on Key Stage 2 data, rigorous target setting and careful tracking and intervention.

In addition to using data provided by primary schools, More Able students will be identified over time using:

  • Subject identification criteria

  • Subject area nominations – based on relevant assessment profiles using multiple types of quality assessment including teacher assessment

  • Assessment results – such as standard tests, CATs and examination performance externally and internally

  • Parent consultation – we will consider parental nomination and welcome any background, knowledge or evidence of a pupil’s work done at home if appropriate. This information will be cross referenced to performance data and the academy decision is final. 

 

What are the opportunities and events for More Able students?

There are many opportunities for More Able students which can include: 

  • Oxbridge trips

  • School productions

  • Theatre trips

  • STEM workshops