Learning Differences

Specific Learning Differences (SpLDs)

What is Dyslexia?

The British Dyslexia Association (BDA) explains Dyslexia as….

… a learning difference which primarily affects reading and writing skills. However, it does not only affect these skills. Dyslexia is actually about information processing. Dyslexic people may have difficulty processing and remembering information they see and hear, which can affect learning and the acquisition of literacy skills. Dyslexia can also impact on other areas such as organisational skills. It is important to remember that there are positives to thinking differently. Many dyslexic people show strengths in areas such as reasoning and in visual and creative fields.

Find out more about Dyslexia from the BDA

What is Dyspraxia?

The NHS explains Dyspraxia as…

… also known as developmental co-ordination disorder (DCD), is a common disorder that affects your movement and co-ordination. Dyspraxia does not affect your intelligence, but it may make daily life more difficult for you. It can affect your co-ordination skills – such as tasks requiring balance, playing sports or learning to drive a car – and your fine motor skills, such as writing or using small objects.

Find out more about Dyspraxia from the NHS

What is Dyscalculia?

The British Dyslexia Association (BDA) explains Dyscalculia as…
… a specific and persistent difficulty in understanding numbers which can lead to a diverse range of difficulties with mathematics. It will be unexpected in relation to age, level of education and experience and occurs across all ages and abilities.

Find out more about Dyscalculla from the BDA

If you have a Specific Learning Difference (SpLD) then you may receive some of the following areas of support:

• 1:1 or small group sessions working on strategies and study skills
• Access to assistive technologies – eg dictaphone or reading pen
• Access to coloured overlays
• Access to a laptop – if appropriate and following assessment
• Examination Access Arrangements
• Dyslexia screener or assessment for access arrangements
• Assessment of processing speed
• Support with visual stress
• Dyscalculia screener
• Lunchtime Club for social activities