Jane Craig, Founding Director of Dyslexia Sparks talks about her dyslexia journey
October marks an important event in the world of dyslexia, International Dyslexia Month. Always a fantastic opportunity to raise further awareness of dyslexia and this year focusing on dyslexic individuals’ own experiences with the theme ‘What’s Your Story?’
So, what’s my story, you might ask?
Am I dyslexic? No.
Am I the parent of a dyslexic child? Also no!
But have I spent over 10 years helping to support dyslexic individuals at school, work and in the wider community? Yes! And for this I am truly lucky. I am fortunate to meet many wonderful dyslexic people every day, as well as work alongside a brilliantly dyslexic individual.
My dyslexia journey began many years ago when I was working as a researcher at the University of Hull. Alongside my research role I began supporting neurodiverse students in what was then called the university’s ‘Disability Support Centre.’ This was my first glimpse into the challenges that dyslexic individuals face with getting their thoughts and ideas down onto paper.
Fast-forward a few years, after working as a lecturer at the Hull University Business School, I then became a specialist dyslexia teacher where I could see first-hand real growth. I was back doing what I loved – working on a more personal level with individuals, and helping them develop on a daily basis.
Early in 2016, along with my then-manager, Mary Robinson, I began considering the idea of establishing an independent charity to better support dyslexic individuals in the region. This led to the birth of my third (and final!) baby, Dyslexia Sparks, officially founded in August 2016.
Eight years on and what a long way we’ve come. I’ve been part of so many wonderful dyslexic individuals’ stories along the way:
The young boy with low self-esteem who saw himself as uncapable at school and in regular trouble. He grew into a confident, responsible and very capable teenager, owning his strengths and putting himself ‘out there’ in so many ways!
The learner who came to us with lower literacy skills than his much younger sister, who became a young man holding a professional apprenticeship in a large, successful corporation.
The shy girl who struggled at school, as well as socially, who after several years of our support has become a confident young woman with a whole host of achievements under her belt.
And along the way, so, so many parents and families also positively impacted by Sparks’ support, who without us would quite possibly be in a very different place!
‘My Story’ is made up of all these people’s stories. They have shaped me professionally and personally, as well as developing my perspective in so many ways, and I feel incredibly privileged to have been a part of these learning journeys.
Inspired by Jane’s Journey?
If you would like to get involved with Dyslexia Sparks please contact our team to see what we can offer to support you.
Team Sparks