For most of her life, Beckie believed she was the problem.
Despite growing up in a family of educators, her struggles at school were never recognised as dyslexia. Instead, she was told to try harder, sit still and concentrate. Over time, those messages became part of how she saw herself.
As an adult, Beckie built a successful domestic cleaning business and worked hard to adapt to the challenges she faced. However, years of struggling with reading, writing and maths continued to influence the choices she made.
“I think it held me back. It stopped me applying for other things because I just didn’t think I’d be able to do it.”
At 52, Beckie sought an adult dyslexia assessment through Dyslexia Sparks to change her story.
The assessment gave her answers to questions she had carried since childhood and helped her realise that the struggles she experienced were not her fault.
Following her assessment, Beckie decided to give education another chance and enrolled on a City & Guilds Functional Skills Level 1 Maths course. Determined to have a different experience from the one she had at school, she accessed specialist adult tuition through Dyslexia Sparks to support her learning.
Over eight tuition sessions, Beckie gained a better understanding of how she learns and developed practical strategies to support her in education, work and everyday life. She learned techniques to improve comprehension, organise information and break down complex tasks.
The impact extended far beyond the classroom. Beckie successfully passed her City & Guilds qualification and now uses the skills she learned in both her personal life and her business.
”I think it's given me more confidence to have a go at other things. Things that I wouldn't have looked at before.
The assessment also led Beckie to seek an assessment for ADHD, resulting in a diagnosis that helped explain even more of her lifelong experiences. Perhaps the greatest change has been in Beckie’s confidence. For years, she hid her difficulties and avoided asking for help. Today, she understands how her brain works, knows what strategies support her, and feels able to advocate for herself. “I’m better at asking for help now. Having that diagnosis gave me the confidence to be able to do that.”
Beckie is passionate about encouraging other adults to seek an assessment and support, regardless of their age.
”For me, the assessment was life-changing. The biggest thing I've taken away is that it's not my fault. You can separate yourself from it, build back what you need and learn a different way.
Today, Beckie approaches education and work with confidence and a toolkit of strategies that work for her. What began as a search for answers became a complete shift in mindset – one that has allowed her to experience both learning and running her business in a far more positive and empowering way.
If you’re considering a dyslexia assessment, you can read more about them here: https://www.dyslexiasparks.org.uk/dyslexia-assessments/
Our staff can chat through what to expect, and support your enquiry.
Contact us today: https://www.dyslexiasparks.org.uk/contact-us/