Empowering Potential: Lionheart's Commitment to Dyslexia Awareness and Inclusion

Affecting about 10% of the population, dyslexia is a lifelong neurological difficulty that primarily affects the ability to read and spell accurately. However, the challenges faced are entirely individual, with some having particular difficulties with verbal (short-term) memory or visual/auditory processing. 

As a result, school can be a very difficult place for young people with dyslexia; the challenges associated with literacy can impact on their confidence and self-esteem. 

At Lionheart Educational Trust, we believe that any young person from any background deserves an equal opportunity to be successful in whatever they choose to do. Consequently, in both our primary and secondary schools, we provide tailored support that enables our dyslexic pupils to flourish when it comes to reading and spelling. 

We offer adaptive tasks, reduce the cognitive load, provide assistive technology and allow pupils to record work. All of this increases our young people’s capacity to retain information and ensures that texts are accessible for them. 

The support we provide enables our dyslexic pupils to make the same level of progress as their peers, allowing them to access enriching opportunities.  

“Dyslexia should not be a barrier to any young person achieving their goals, including accessing Higher Education,” explained Sarah George, our Primary Director of Inclusion. 

Earlier this year, we also hosted an internal, Trust-wide, Disability Awareness week where, across our schools, we emphasised the abilities of individuals with disabilities, including dyslexia.  

Our pupils learned that people with dyslexia are often excellent problem solvers, as they have to find ways to overcome their difficulties every day. They can have a wonderful imagination and can visualise things in a way that neurotypical peers cannot; in fact many successful inventors and designers are dyslexic.  

“Lionheart will be marking Dyslexia Awareness week in a range of ways across our schools,” explained Sarah. 

“We are committed to supporting all our pupils to achieve their potential and recognise that understanding their unique strengths and challenges is essential part of that journey.   

“We value all our learners and celebrate their incredibly diverse talents and achievements.” 

By tailoring our support to meet the unique needs of dyslexic pupils, we aim to ensure they not only keep pace with their peers, but also unlock their full potential. Through understanding and celebrating the strengths that come with dyslexia, we are empowering our students to succeed academically and beyond.