International Gateway for Gifted Youth

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The launch of the International Gateway for Gifted Youth (IGGY) was announced at the World Council Conference for Gifted and Talented Children which was held at the University of Warwick on 5 August 2007. The Vice Chancellor of the University of Warwick, Professor Nigel Thrift made the announcement during his keynote speech. In the same speech he explained why Warwick had decided not to bid for the contract to succeed the National Academy for Gifted and Talented Youth which Warwick had hosted since 2002. The Government's successor for NAGTY is called YG&T.

IGGY is a key feature of Warwick's new strategy, Vision 2015, but many leading universities and organisations are expected to be partners in IGGY.

[edit] Who is IGGY For?

IGGY is said to be targeted at the brightest young people from across the globe with a focus on the top 5% by ability and potential. The target age range is said to be 11-19. In England the entry criteria for members mirrors those previously developed for NAGTY and the admissions criteria for international students are expected to be developed on a country by country by basis. The University has reported that interest has been shown from 20 countries to date. IGGY is said to be committed to ensuring that the ability to pay does not prevent the brightest and creative young people from participating and reports that is targeting philanthropic and private organisations to secure funding to provide bursaries.

Warwick announced on 22 April 2008 that it was launching its IGGY Summer U programme one year early with the first programme running at the Warwick Campus in July and August 2008. Students can win a free place by entering the IGGY Junior Commission competition.