Belonging.

When it comes to gifted education, what does belonging mean? Does it refer to a sense of connectivity with ones’ tribe? Does it call into question how and where gifted education fits into our education system?

According to Mind Matters, a sense of belonging provides young people with purpose, meaning, self-worth and social control, all of which are contributors to positive mental health. Students with a sense of belonging are more motivated to participate actively in the life of the classroom than those students who do not have this kind of experience. Conversely, the feeling of not belonging or social isolation can lead to a range of negative — and under some circumstances, long term — consequences, both physical and psychological.

We invite you to come on a journey of belonging this Gifted Awareness Week. Join us by organising a local event, or being involved in a local event. Use the resources page to deliver a presentation or professional learning for staff. Contribute to the GAW Blog page or share the blogs amongst your network. If you have any other ideas for contributing to the promotion and awareness of the diverse learning needs of the gifted, please contact us.

Melinda Gindy
National Facilitator- Gifted Awareness Week Australia