What can you do to support your HLP child?

Try not to refer to or think of your child as ‘gifted’, as this often doesn’t help motivate students to learn. A more helpful message is that even innate ability needs to be worked at if potential is to be realised. As the famous film producer Samuel Goldwyn is often quoted as saying: “The harder I work, the luckier I get.”

Your child will only occasionally be asked to complete extra work because they have finished first; completing content is not a sign of a higher standard or better quality work. Instead, they may be encouraged to consider the depth of their thinking; apply their knowledge in more detail; complete the work with higher expectations than their peers, or approach tasks in a more creative way.

Don’t forget also, you are parent or carer of a bright child but one who is also a teenager! Do not despair if they have a period of disengagement and seem oblivious to your enthusiasm and intervention. Too much pressure may even make them feel resentful. Gentle guidance, a range of opportunities offered and the acceptance that potential needs hard work to blossom will all help to work towards the goals we know they are capable of.

Being placed on the HLP register is not a label of ‘genius’, nor is it a guarantee of success, but we will do our best to bring out your child’s potential and offer opportunities that create interest, challenge their thinking and engage their learning. The leaflet on the left reminds you of our key principles.