Special Educational Needs

What support is available for children with dyslexia?

Dyslexia causes difficulties in learning to read, write and spell. Short-term memory, mathematics, concentration, personal organisation and sequencing may also be affected. Children with dyslexia have difficulty in remembering sequences of words or actions, mispronounce common words and reverse letters or sounds in words. They may also have poor handwriting and punctuation and become frustrated with reading.

If you are concerned that your child may be dyslexic you should first discuss your worries with the headteacher or your child’s class teacher. The special educational needs co-ordinator (SENCo) in the school may also be involved. He or she will know about dyslexia and the type of help your child might need. The school may consult an educational psychologist or a special educational needs adviser.

There are also a number of voluntary groups that can provide information and support.

An individual education plan (IEP) may be written to record the steps needed to help your child and to record and monitor the progress he or she makes. The plan might include specially designed programmes for reading and spelling. Extra help may also be given to your child either in the classroom, in a small teaching group or individually. Any education plan developed for your child will be discussed with you on a regular basis.

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