Supporting Families of Gifted and Talented Students in Western Australia

Congratulations if your child has been identified for the WA Department of Education’s Gifted and Talented Program! This prestigious program offers exceptional opportunities for students with advanced intellectual, creative, or artistic abilities to thrive through specialised courses and individualised support.

At Gifted WA, we understand that while being part of the Gifted and Talented (GAT) program is a significant achievement, it is just the beginning of your family’s journey. Gifted children often require tailored support both in and outside the classroom to ensure their unique needs are met, enabling them to flourish academically, socially, and emotionally.

What Is the Gifted and Talented Program?

The WA Department of Education’s GAT program identifies and nurtures the potential of gifted students through:

• Selective Entry: Rigorous assessment to match students with programs suited to their abilities.
• Specialised Learning Environments: Advanced academic, arts, and language courses in high-performing schools.
• Individual Development: Opportunities to explore passions and talents while fostering emotional well-being.

Learn more about the program here.

How Gifted WA Supports Families of GAT Students

At Gifted WA, we work hand in hand with parents to complement the opportunities provided by the GAT program. Gifted children often experience challenges such as:

• Asynchronous Development: Advanced cognitive abilities but uneven emotional or physical development.
• Social Integration: Difficulty connecting with peers or feeling "different."
• Emotional Intensity: A heightened sensitivity that can lead to perfectionism or anxiety.

Our mission is to provide parents with the knowledge, tools, and community to navigate these complexities.

Why Join Gifted WA?

When you become part of Gifted WA, you gain access to:

1. Parent Advocacy:

   • Expert advice on advocating for your child’s unique needs at school.
   • Resources to understand and nurture giftedness in the home.

2. Workshops and Seminars:

   • Learn from leading educators and psychologists specialising in gifted education.
   • Discover practical strategies for supporting your child’s development.

3. Community Connection:

   • Meet other families who share the joys and challenges of raising gifted children.
   • Share experiences, build friendships, and grow together.

4. Educational Resources:

   • Explore articles, guides, and tools to enhance your understanding of giftedness.
   • Gain insights into how to best support your child’s learning journey.

5. Advocacy for Policy Change:

   • Be part of a collective voice advocating for better gifted education policies across WA.

Your Next Step

Gifted WA is here to walk alongside you as you navigate your child’s gifted education journey. Let’s work together to ensure your child’s needs are met—so they can unlock their full potential.

Explore, Connect, Thrive

Join Gifted WA Today!