It's alright to be bright!

Whatever the weather sunglasses will be the order of the day on Friday 9th May for National Association for Gifted Childrenís (NAGC) annual ëItís alright to be brightí awareness day which is being supported by Select Education.

Now in its second year, the awareness day highlights the challenges facing high ability children, young people and their families. To show children it really is alright to be bright, NAGC ñ a membership charity that deals with all aspects of giftedness in children ñ is asking pupils and teachers across the country to turn up for school in their brightest outfit.

Money raised from the day will enable NAGC to continue its work supporting an often misunderstood group of children and their families.

To help make the day a success NAGC has produced a pack for schools setting out the aims of the day and containing ideas to make it as bright as possible -- from colourful clothing tips to suggestions for scientific activities and even brightly coloured notice boards.

NAGC chief executive Denise Yates comments on the day: We want every child to feel it is alright to be bright. This day was designed to celebrate their gifts and talents, whether they are academic, sporting or artistic; pertaining to leadership, problem-solving or world awareness; and to have some fun at the same time.

Thereís a general misconception that ëcleverí children and young people will do well in school, but many gifted and talented children underachieve and some may become disruptive or give up on school altogether. Their needs are often misunderstood or misdiagnosed.

Peter Flannery, managing director at Select Education adds: ìCelebrating excellence in our UK schools is a hugely positive message. It is also important for children and parents alike to understand that being gifted comes in all shapes and sizes and the ëItís alright to be brightí awareness day will help to support getting this message across as widely as possible.î

The ëItís alright to be brightí awareness day supports the governmentís 'Every Child Matters: Change for Children' programme, which is focused on giving every child the support they require, whatever their needs, abilities, background or circumstances. In the case of many gifted children their learning experience may still not be appropriate for their complex needs and their gifts and talents may not be accepted and understood by their peers and teachers.

Lord Andrew Adonis, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Schools and Learners, explains: ìEvery child should have the opportunity to make the most of their potential, which means recognising when a child needs special assistance to develop a particular ability or talent, as well as helping those who may be at risk of falling behind.î

To support NAGCís awareness campaign, visit the website at