Hear from our community

“Due to the current Corvid 19 situation, I have not been able to put some of the additional knowledge I have gained into practice. I hope following this situation I will have the extra knowledge and confidence in supporting schools with pupils that have motor co- ordination difficulties.

“Training has helped me focus on the main reasons for dyslexia and our choice and effectiveness of interventions. The use of mnemonics (for 2 Y6 pupils) in a regular 3x week intervention (1:1 ) have shown some improvements on their spelling results when recently assessed. They are not at age expected but have retained some spellings, one child is better at spotting an incorrect spelling and has learned the blends needed, but still struggles to retain the word in its entirety. Both these children have co-morbidity- ADHD diagnosed, one on medication, but without doubt their focus is frequently affected. I am constantly having to stress the frequency that the interventions need to be delivered i.e. at least 3x week in order for them to be successful; and include some independent time on the other 2 days for the children to practise e.g. over learn by playing a sound game; use Nessy or similar software, teachers like the speed of precision teaching (having assessed tricky word knowledge/first 100 HFW/statutory year group spelling lists or words commonly spelled wrong in their daily writing) and several children can be managed effectively over a week when teachers organise their adult support well. We are including this in Y1 to focus on the lowest spellers, we will be able to check in on their progress after phonic screening and evaluate who may need further assessment to check whether dyslexia is a likely concern.

“Overall, this training has given me the knowledge to have confidence in my role. Making assessments of pupils needs and progress. It has given me the confidence to work alongside staff/ lead and VI specialist teacher with the knowledge to join in conversations understanding and using the terminology as well as understanding.

“I enjoyed the course; I did have some understanding about deafness before I started the course. I will now use my new knowledge and pass this on to my colleagues, so we can all help our pupil to become more independent in her school and personal life.