October is Dyslexia Awareness Month, and for our small charity it’s the most important month of the year.
At Dyslexia Sparks, our mission is to support dyslexic individuals of all ages to identify their strengths and learning needs, enabling them to overcome barriers. This October, we took that mission into universities, schools, council offices and online communities. Here’s a look back at what we’ve been up to.
Supporting educators at Leeds Beckett University
To kick off the month, we were invited to the Leeds Beckett University Inclusion Conference to support educators in higher education. Our training session focused on dyslexia awareness, helping educators understand the barriers their students may face and, just as importantly, how they can support them more effectively.
We delivered our first session to the Level 7 educators, and we’re looking forward to returning in November for the Level 5 session. Thank you to everyone at Leeds Beckett for the warm welcome and for your commitment to inclusive teaching.
Joining Twinkl’s first Festival of Inclusion
We took part in Twinkl’s first Festival of Inclusion, where we hosted an introductory webinar on dyslexia for educators and parents. The session explored how the dyslexic brain works and the impact dyslexia can have day to day. The feedback left us knowing that people were given practical ideas they can put to use straight away is exactly what we hope for.
“Thank you for a really positive and inspiring session. Will use so much of the guidance straight away.”
“A brilliant session on how the dyslexic brain works and the impacts.”
Dyslexia awareness in schools
Helping children understand dyslexia early builds empathy, confidence and a culture where differences are celebrated, so schools were a big part of our month.
We hosted two primary school assemblies, reaching over 300 pupils at Marfleet Primary Academy and Alderman Cogan’s Church of England Primary Academy. We talked with the children about what dyslexia is, how it can affect learning, and the incredible strengths and successes of people with dyslexia.
We also delivered student workshops at South Hunsley Senior School, building empathy and understanding in the classroom. Whether a student is dyslexic themselves or sitting next to someone who is, the sessions helped every young person feel understood and valued.
A huge thank you to all three schools for having us, and to the pupils for being such a brilliant audience.
Showcasing assistive technology with AT Superstore
We teamed up with AT Superstore to deliver a webinar on assistive technology, showcasing some of their huge product range. We looked at reading pens that can help with understanding text, tools to support children who struggle with noise, and products designed to help with anxiety and emotional regulation. Watch our webinar here.
We’ve also been testing a number of AT Superstore’s products in our specialist tuition, to gather real feedback on the impact they have. It’s also a lovely way to introduce our students and their families to the idea of assistive technology, and to show that the right tools can make a real difference. Read more here.
Connecting with Councillor Victoria Aitken
We were thrilled to connect with local councillor Victoria Aitken, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services at East Riding of Yorkshire Council. We shared her inspiring dyslexia journey, including how she works with dyslexia in real life throughout her working day.
Stories like Victoria’s matter. Encouraging adults to seek support, inspire children, and reassure parents that their child can find great success. You can read her full story here.
Thank you to everyone who has supported us this month. Awareness doesn’t end when October does though. Dyslexia is a lifelong difference, and the need for understanding, professionalism and a safe, supportive environment is there all year round.
Whether you’re thinking about a dyslexia assessment, need support at work, or want to train your team to be more dyslexia-friendly, we’re here to help. Take a look at our services to find out more.