ABSTRACT
There are many reasons why some pupils with high ability in English fail to achieve their potential or need support on a short-term basis. For some we will never know what particular barrier to learning is impeding expected progress. In other cases, the reasons include:
● special educational needs of one sort or another
● an unsupportive home environment/culture
● excessive responsibilities in the home. A substantial number of children act as carers to parents or siblings
● peer pressure to appear ‘cool’
● having English as an additional language. Even when pupils appear fluent in the language, serious discussion in the home may take place in another language. This could make it difficult for them to hone their English language skills
● a teacher whose style of teaching does not stimulate or who is unable to empathise with the pupil
● a school that has not succeeded in establishing a positive learning environment.
