Dyslexic kids get help lessons (From Swindon Advertiser)

Dyslexic kids get help lessons

12:20pm Wednesday 22nd July 2009 in

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A SWINDON school has been given an award for making lessons easier for dyslexic children.

St Luke’s School, in Cricklade Road, has received the British Dyslexia Association Quality Mark.

And Orchid Vale primary school has also been recognised for its teaching of children with dyslexia.

St Luke’s special educational needs co-ordinator (SENCO), Jo Hale, said: “Achieving the award has had an astounding impact on the school. Not only has it had a huge impact on improving reading ages of our pupils; it has boosted their confidence, helped them develop new friendships and form new learning groups. “ St Luke’s head Zoe Lattimer was presented with the award by Swindon Council last week.

Coun Garry Perkins, lead cabinet member for children, also attended the presentation at the school, which caters for children with emotional, behavioural and social difficulties (BESD).

He said: “Children with BESD often have underlying literacy difficulties which, when addressed, can lead to a positive change in their behaviour.

“I am pleased that St Luke’s has identified this as a key area of concern and taken the time to improve teaching methods, develop the wider learning environment and compile a portfolio of evidence to show this improved practice – all of which has resulted in this quality award.”

Last Thursday, Orchid Vale primary, was presented with a Swindon Dyslexia Friendly Award by mayor David Wren.

Using coloured rulers instead of clear ones is one of the many practical steps taken to making learning easier.

Head Debbie Kalynka said: “Everybody in the school has worked very hard since we opened to make sure everything is inclusive. We are delighted to get the validation that everything we were doing was the right approach.

“It is about making sure everything within the classroom is accessible to children.”

She praised school SENCO Charlotte James who helped Orchid Vale achieve the dyslexia friendly status.

Twenty two primary schools have already been bestowed with the award by the council and the British Dyslexia Association.