NACE - Provision for more able learners

An independent charity founded over 35 years ago, the National Association for Able Children in Education (NACE) works with member schools, education leaders and practitioners to improve provision for more able learners, driving whole-school improvement and raising achievement for all.

Holme Grange is also a NACE Research and Development (R&D) Hub.Hubs develop their own annual programme of CPD and support, based on local need

Aims

NACE believes that all able children and young people, regardless of background, should be recognised and have the opportunity to realise their potential. We offer practical resources, support and CPD to help schools review and improve the quality of policy and provision for more able learners within a context of challenge and high standards for all.

Background

The work is guided by the following core principles, which unite the diverse network of member schools, professionals and partner organisations:

The education of more able learners is a whole-school endeavour to be embraced by all school leaders.
Addressing the needs of more able learners will raise achievement for a much wider group of learners in a school.
Providing for more able learners is not about labelling, but about creating a curriculum and learning opportunities which allow all children to flourish.
Ability can be revealed across a range of specific domains or more generally, and not only in traditional academic subjects.
An ethos of high expectations and aspirations is a central plank for any school providing for more able learners.
Teachers are central to providing challenging and enriching education, and their professional development is paramount.
Ability is a fluid concept: it can be developed through challenge, opportunity and self belief.

Resources

Launched in 2018, NACE’s Research and Development (R&D) Hubs offer regional opportunities for NACE members to exchange effective practice, develop in-school research skills and collaborate on enquiry-based projects. 

Holme Grange provides the facilities, resources and staff for training and support. 

Impact

Each hub is led by a Challenge Award-accredited school, bringing together members from all phases, sectors and contexts to share and augment the available evidence on what works for more able learners.