Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD)
Specific Learning Difficulties covers a range of difficulties including:
- Dyslexia specific weaknesses related to spelling, reading and writing
- Dyspraxia specific weaknesses in physical co-ordination and organisation skills
- Dyscalculia specific weaknesses in understanding and using numbers.
The SpLD team provides a range of assessment and support for students to develop learning strategies that will help them access and complete their programme of study. This, in turn, increases their confidence, independence and self-esteem.
The specialist support offered may include:
- One-to-one sessions to help develop learning strategies
- Workshop study and assignment support
- Liaison with personal tutors and teaching staff, to develop specific classroom strategies and targeted support so that curriculum, teaching and assessment methods are effectively differentiated
- A screening process for those who have not previously been diagnosed, and a way forward to full diagnostic assessment, if appropriate
- A short individualised program on embedding a wide range of specialised strategies, including Assistive Technology Skills include: touch typing, using reading and speech recognition software and mind-mapping; in addition to encouraging independence
- Supporting students planning to progress to degree study with their Disabled Student Allowance (DSA) applications.
Student feedback
“The support has helped me with proofreading, strategies for coping in class, organisation and time management skills, not rambling and having someone to listen to me."
“I’ve learnt the skill of being organised and see the benefit of having an organised folder.”
“Learning support has given me more confidence and improved my maths a lot and I would not pass without it.”
“One-to-one support has been most useful because we focus on getting the work done and ensuring I understand it. With 1:1, I get to talk about what I’ve been struggling with and, I would be able to talk about my problems and get advice.”
