A Barrow youngster has become one of the youngest members of Mensa with an IQ score of 130.
It means Sam Cavaghan, eight, is a pupil at Newbarns Primary School, is in the top two per cent nationally for his age group.
He was referred for private assessment after his parents, Jennifer and Joshua, noticed signs of advanced intellectual ability from an early age.
Sam is too young to sit the standard Mensa test, available from the age of 10, but findings from his educational psychologist’s assessment met the criteria for membership.
Mrs Cavaghan said Sam had always been advanced for his age using sophisticated vocabulary and showing a curiosity about the world around him.
Mr Cavaghan added: “He actively researches his interests in depth, including Greek mythology and Shakespeare, by discussing topics with family members, using the internet and asking for books from the library.
“He was very happy to learn how unusually strong his abilities are and that he could join Mensa – an organisation which could help support his enthusiasm for learning.”
Sam’s parents hope his Mensa membership will help nurture his love of learning, create opportunities for further enrichment and allow him to meet other children with similar interests and abilities.
Sam said: “Being in Mensa makes me feel really proud because it’s like a club for really smart people.
“I like learning, especially history and science, preferably biology, and I love reading books like Harry Potter and The Way to the Impossible Island.
“Doing the tests had some easy questions and some harder ones, but overall they felt kind of medium to me.”
Newbarns Primary and Nursery School headteacher Victoria Fitzgibbons said: “We are delighted to see Sam’s talents recognised in this way.
“At Newbarns, we encourage every child to pursue their interests and reach their full potential and Sam’s success is inspiring to both pupils and staff alike.”
Newbarns School is part of South Cumbria Multi-Academy Trust.
