Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 1413: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the progress in regard to the commitment given in the programme for Government to increase resources and services for gifted children. [47971/08]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA), in collaboration with its counterparts in Northern Ireland, the Council for Curriculum Examination and Assessment, has produced draft guidelines for teachers of exceptionally able students. These guidelines issued to all Primary and Post Primary schools in November 2007 along with a questionnaire for feedback. The NCCA has sought feedback on the draft guidelines from teachers, school management and other interested individuals and organisations.

These draft guidelines are designed to raise awareness of the social, emotional and academic needs of exceptionally able students and to assist teachers in planning their teaching and learning. They feature ways in which teaching and learning can be effectively differentiated for such students, in particular how learning skills can be embedded in increasingly complex content. Case studies included in the guidelines present rich real-life contexts which consider the issues around exceptionality through the eyes of teachers, parents and students.

The Special Education Support Service also provides support for school personnel working with talented / gifted students.