You know that feeling when you connect with someone who ‘gets’ you – that sense of finding your tribe?
This sense of belonging is crucial for everyone, but it holds even more significance for a child with high learning potential. Whether described by terms like high ability, gifted and talented, bright, more or most able, curious, intelligent, clever, these children often navigate paths filled with unique experiences and interests. Their connections with peers can be different, marked by a depth and complexity that require understanding and support.
This understanding of the importance of connection was at the heart of the Be Curious Weekend, held on the 4th and 5th of May 2024. Over 100 people from 34 families gathered for this event, which aimed to foster social connections among families with shared experiences.
The weekend took place at the picturesque Beaumanor Hall in Leicestershire. This was an inspiring and atmospheric setting and provided the perfect backdrop for a weekend filled with exploration and bonding. From brain-teasing activities to outdoor adventures like canoeing and climbing, families immersed themselves in new experiences. The weekend also reflected the site’s rich history, some activities were inspired by its role as a Y Listening Station during WWII, with families working together over code-cracking challenges. It also had activities inspired by its Victorian history, with immersive experiences in the Victorian School Room and Cellars. The grounds provided the perfect canvas for bushcraft and bridge-building activities, further fostering connections among families.
While the emphasis was on fun, the weekend also provided opportunities to practise and develop essential skills such as listening, speaking, creativity, problem-solving, aiming high, staying positive, leadership, and teamwork. Using the Skills Builder Framework, families could explore resources from Skills Builder. To find out more, a great place to start is Potential Plus UK’s blog on developing these skills What is Skills Builder?
It was a weekend filled with fun and enrichment and the great news is, you can join us next year! Mark your calendars for the 3rd and 4th May 2025 for the next Be Curious Weekend on the May bank holiday weekend! Don’t miss this national event packed with popular activities and opportunities to make meaningful connections.
Pippa Heasman
Potential Plus UK Events Coordinator
