Dyslexia

“Dyslexia is a learning difficulty that primarily affects the skills involved in accurate and fluent word reading and spelling. Characteristic features of dyslexia are difficulties in phonological awareness, verbal memory and verbal processing speed. Dyslexia occurs across the range of intellectual abilities. It is best thought of as a continuum, not a distinct category, and there are no clear cut-off points. Co-occurring difficulties may be seen in aspects of language, motor co-ordination, mental calculation, concentration and personal organisation, but these are not, by themselves, markers of dyslexia.”

Rose Report (pg 10)

Most of the support recommended for children with dyslexia, is provided through The Mainstream Core Standards. At Amherst, we strive to make all of our classrooms dyslexia friendly through:

• careful consideration of seating
• choice of colours and design of displays
• accessible equipment
• word banks
• writing templates
• careful selection of reading books
• classroom routines
• support with organisation of personal equipment
• use of technology to support learners
• teaching of spelling
• marking strategies
• small group work

If a child displays traits of dyslexia we may carry out a screener which can highlight areas where a child has difficulties. This can then help the Class Teacher to focus support on the correct areas. At Amherst, we always support the need rather than the diagnosis, therefore a dyslexia assessment is not needed for any additional support. KCC does not pay for full dyslexia assessments and these can only be carried out privately.

If you have any questions about your child and dyslexia, please speak to the Class Teacher in the first instance.