Gifted pupils deployed as study buddies

At one school, gifted pupils are putting their talents to good use.

DUBAI // When 14-year-old Anaihita Singh was identified as a child with exceptional abilities, her talents were immediately put to use.

The Grade 10 pupil is part of the Gifted and Talented department's Study Buddy programme at Dubai International Academy.

"I started the Study Buddy programme last year by tutoring elementary pupils in English," she said.

"With the help of our teacher supervisor, we do activities to help with their vocabulary, make them write stories and conduct spelling games."

Anaihita, who also helps a Year 4 pupil in mathematics two days a week after school, said her knowledge of the subject increases in the process.

"It's a memory jog and strengthens my understanding as well," she said.

"I am usually not too good with talking to people but this programme has definitely helped. I need to teach eight other children and it has boosted my self-confidence."

Rami Saglam, the coordinator of the programme, said the school was looking at ways to stretch gifted pupils further.

"We do not only want to recognise their ability but try to employ them to help the community," he said.

"The gifted pupils benefit from practising their communication skills and brushing up their academic skills while the pupils receiving their help also make progress in their subjects."

Benjamin Miller, a Year 13 pupil at the school who is also in the Study Buddy programme, has been helping a schoolmate with motor difficulties to become more active.

"The young boy had problems with his motor skills and he had a low muscle density," said Benjamin. "He was also alone a lot so I helped him after school a few days a week to get active through sports and integrate him back into a more social system in the school."

Benjamin has displayed talents including teaching drums and coaching rugby, both of which are pupil-led initiatives that he pioneered at the school.

"When I was first recommended for the gifted and talented programme, it came as a surprise because I never saw myself as much more than the average student. You come to school, hand in your work on time and do what you can."

He said after the assessment to identify the gifted, he was given an opportunity to hone his skills.

"Helping others with what I know best has made me a more well-rounded student and if my abilities are of more use to my peers, then it is my duty to use them."