A 'pyramid of progression' (see fig below) may provide a useful framework for those working with artistically talented children and young people. Within this model there are four main factors that affect the development of talent:

• age
• ability
• motivation
• availability of opportunity.

These factors determine where an individual student sits within the pyramid and their progression through the tiers.

Effective education for pupils who are gifted and talented in the arts is achieved through a combination of in-school and out-of-school opportunities. Schools can and do provide meaningful learning experiences for all their pupils, no matter how exceptional their talent, but many pupils will need to access additional opportunities to develop fully their potential. Teachers can demonstrate best practice by acting as brokers, helping pupils to find and benefit from opportunities outside of school that provide the right level of challenge and progression.