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Dyslexia is a type of learning disability that can make it hard to read and spell. Around 10% of people in the UK have dyslexia. If you have dyslexia you might find homework and lessons difficult but you can get extra help to make sure you're getting the educational support you deserve.
It can take time to find out if you have dyslexia but once it’s been confirmed there are ways you can get support. Our website has some useful information about how to get support at home and at school. You might be entitled to things like extra support with school work, more time to complete your work and help to make the most of your strengths and build your confidence.
If you’re struggling with school work you should see your doctor to check whether any health problems such as with your sight or hearing could be affecting your learning. What happens next will depend on what subjects and tasks you’re finding difficult, so it’s best to talk to your teacher about how things are going and what your doctor has advised.
It’s important to identify what you need, and your school should work with you to find things that'll help. Sometimes that might include working in small groups or having some lessons with a learning support assistant or specialist teacher.
Your needs can change and if you’re doing well in lessons, it might be that nothing extra needs to be done. If you’re worried you're not getting the help you need you can talk to your teacher again and ask to see the special educational needs coordinator (SENCO) at your school to decide if you need additional support.
If things aren’t improving after that you can ask for an assessment with someone who has specialist training, like an educational psychologist. The assessment will include tests, talking to teachers and being observed in class and you’ll be given the results. Your parent or carer could help with this through the Independent Parental Special Education Advice charity.
Remember, everyone's different so it’s important to get the right help and support for you and your teachers should tell you about any decisions they make, like starting an assessment or putting other support in place.
If you think that the special educational needs support isn’t helping enough then your parent or carer can ask for an education, health and care (EHC) plan, or you can ask for one if you’re over 16.
Thank you for your letter. And remember our counsellors are always here for you if you need someone to talk to.
Take care,
Sam
