Wycliffe Preparatory School has earned national acclaim for its support of gifted and talented children.

It is one of only 10 schools in the UK to be awarded a One Star Gold Schools Membership by Potential Plus UK.

Potential Plus is the UK’s only organisation that provides support to help children and young people with high learning potential to develop and thrive.

Wycliffe had to meet 19 key criteria to prove the school is committed to working with parents and carers to maximise the potential of their gifted and talented children.

Headmaster, Mr Adrian Palmer, said Wycliffe Prep had been a member of the Potential Plus UK since 2011.

“We decided to apply for the gold membership as it is proof of our commitment to supporting all of our Gifted & Talented pupils,” said Mr Palmer. “We want to continue to develop and build on the opportunities we can provide.”

The school runs specific events for pupils who excel in sports, the arts and in academic subjects. It also provides special online resources.

For 12-year-old striker Blake Cowling, of Slad, support has helped him secure a place in the Independent Schools Football Association South West Under 13 representative team.

“I like football because it is a team sport,” he said. “I would someday like to play for Arsenal.”

Rebecca Taphouse, a 13-year-old academic gifted student, says she enjoys the special Saturday activities. “The events challenge me and make me try harder, and help to develop my skills,” she said.

The extra trips to art galleries has helped 13-year-old artist Lowri Clarke to focus on her drawing skills.

“Playwright Samuel Beckett is my inspiration. I would never have tried to sketch his portrait without the encouragement I have had to develop my skills,” added Lowri.