Dyslexia is a learning difficulty – some prefer the term learning difference. Most people with dyslexia find that their reading, writing and/or spelling is affected to some degree.
Dyslexia is a life-long neurological condition, which is hereditary – it runs in families and affects between 10% and 15% of the population and there is no ‘magic cure’.
Dyslexia is not linked to intelligence and it occurs across all socio-economic backgrounds, cultures and languages – even those whose writing system is pictographic (e.g. Mandarin, Cantonese, Japanese).
Learners with dyslexia often find that their spoken ability and understanding of a subject is better than their written ability.
Dyslexia is best thought of as a continuum – some people will be mildly affected whilst others can be severely affected.
Dyslexia and other learning difficulties are recognised as a disability under the Equality Act 2010.
Being dyslexic does not mean that you can’t do something – but it may mean you have to learn to do it in a different way than someone who is not dyslexic.
Undiagnosed, or improperly supported dyslexia can lead to low attainment in comparison with your academic ability, as well as behavioural difficulties, increased stress and/or poor wellbeing.
As a teacher, I firmly believe that if a person cannot learn through the way we teach, we must teach in the way that they can learn.
There are many examples of famous people who, despite their dyslexia, have found ways to fulfil their true potential.
Barbara L Barnes, 