Welcome from the Minister of Education

Hon Steve Maharey, Minister of Education

In New Zealand, gifted learners are found in every classroom and across all cultures and socio-economic groups. They are children who, with the right support and guidance, go on to contribute in a range of important areas of New Zealand society.

All New Zealand schools work with gifted learners across academia, the arts and sports. Our approach to gifted learners recognises that these students need teaching programmes that build on their individual talents and help them to achieve to the highest level possible.

The government provides support for gifted learners in a number of ways, including funding through the Talent Development Initiatives, professional development and resources for teachers and ongoing research.

This conference is an important part of the work going on in New Zealand to ensure we are identifying and supporting all of our gifted and talented students. The three day event provides the opportunity to listen to national and international experts and hear about effective practice in schools and early childhood centres.

I hope you will enjoy this opportunity to share knowledge about issues which affect gifted learners and their parents and whanau.

Click here to access the speech notes for Hon Steve Maharey's address at the conference.