Abstract

This presentation explores the current education reform agenda in Kazakhstan. This is underpinned, in part, by the argument that investment in human capital through elite institutions for gifted children can lift up the whole system of education. Drawing upon examples from primary data, I will discuss the multifaceted model of education for gifted children that is being developed in Kazakhstan, which seeks to combine an internationally recognised curriculum with elements from national educational traditions. It also involves strategic partnerships with major international educational providers. I will argue that reforming elite education as a strategy for social change has both advantages and drawbacks. Furthermore, it will take time for any significant change to become embedded within the wider system of education.