Gifted learners are children and young people who demonstrate exceptional ability or potential in one or more areas. These areas may include intellectual ability, creativity, leadership, the arts, or specific academic subjects.
At Cambridge Educational Psychology Services, we work with whānau, schools, and communities to ensure that giftedness is seen, valued, and nurtured. Our approach is inclusive, culturally responsive, and strength-based. We believe that giftedness is not just about achievement – it's also about how a learner thinks, feels, and connects to the world around them.
Supporting strength, curiosity, and potential.
What might giftedness look like?
Giftedness can look different in every child. You might notice:
Early or advanced language and reasoning
Deep curiosity and strong interests
Sensitivity to social justice or environmental issues
A strong sense of fairness and empathy
Asynchronous development (for example, advanced verbal skills but age-typical social skills)
High energy or intense focus on areas of interest
Some gifted learners may feel out of step with their peers, which can lead to frustration, perfectionism, or social withdrawal if not understood or supported.
A Māori perspective on giftedness
In te ao Māori, giftedness (often called puawaitanga – blossoming or flourishing) is understood holistically. A child may be seen as gifted not only in academic domains but also in areas like:
Manaakitanga – showing care and hospitality
Whanaungatanga – building strong and meaningful relationships
Wairuatanga – spiritual sensitivity and intuitive understanding
Toi Māori – creative talents in kapa haka, carving, weaving, or storytelling
Leadership or service within whānau, hapū, or iwi
We honour the mātauranga and tikanga that surround each child and work in partnership with whānau to identify and support giftedness in ways that are culturally safe and mana-enhancing.
How can CEPS help?
We offer assessments, consultation, and ongoing support for learners suspected of being gifted. Our work may include:
Cognitive and learning assessments to identify strengths and learning profiles
Observations and interviews to understand the learner’s interests and needs
Supporting schools to adapt teaching and learning
Collaborating with whānau to develop culturally appropriate support strategies
Helping learners understand their own minds and motivations
We advocate for gifted learners to have equitable access to enriched learning opportunities – not just “more of the same” work, but learning that is deeper, more creative, and more connected to their passions. With the right support, they can flourish – emotionally, socially, spiritually and academically.
If you think your child might be gifted, or if you’re a parent, caregiver, whānau or teacher looking for guidance, get in touch with us at CEPS. We’d love to support your journey.
Helpful Resources
New Zealand Association for Gifted Children (NZAGC)
A national non-profit supporting gifted children and their families through advocacy, events, and regional branches.
Website: www.giftedchildren.org.nz
REACH Education Consultancy
Specialists in gifted education, offering support to schools and resources for parents on understanding and supporting gifted learners.
Website: www.giftedreach.org.nz
Gifted Learners – Ministry of Education
Provides official guidance and support for gifted learners, including awards, professional development, and resources for schools and families.
Website: education.govt.nz – Gifted Learners
Cambridge Educational Psychology Services
Freephone: 0800 730 700
Mobile: 021 730 700
Email: enquiries@ceps.co.nz
Emergency Support Contacts
CEPS does not provide crisis support services. For any life-threatening emergencies, please dial 111.