Dyslexia Action is 50 years old!

This year, we are celebrating 50 years of Dyslexia Action! The birth of Dyslexia Action is very much bound up with many notable events and people who were drivers for change in both the medical and educational arenas. 

The Dyslexia Institute was founded by Wendy Fisher in 1972. Wendy and Kathleen Hickey (who at the time was appointed Director of Studies), set up the first Dyslexia Institute, developing a multisensory teaching method for children with dyslexia and literacy difficulties. Centres opened across the country in the 1970s, each offering assessment, training for teachers and twice weekly lessons for pupils with dyslexia.

The Dyslexia Guild was established in the spring of 1994. The Guild grew out of an alumni association of Dyslexia Institute Literacy Programme (DILP) specialist teachers, but soon was open to all with an interest in dyslexia. The Dyslexia Guild still runs today with a large network of members, aiming to promote discussion, information and research as well as keep members informed of developments in the field through publication and distribution.

In 2006, the Dyslexia Institute became Dyslexia Action to reflect the merger with the Hornsby International Dyslexia Centre and to encompass the purposeful and proactive nature of the organisations. Multisensory teaching and the Dyslexia Action Literacy Programme (DALP), updated in 2012, still form the cornerstone of qualification courses that Dyslexia Action offers for specialist teachers today. Dyslexia Action Training has now trained a multitude of teachers to become qualified specialists. Here’s to continued success working together with teachers and schools, supporting them to help improve the lives of children with dyslexia and specific learning difficulties.

In 2017, Dyslexia Action Training became part of Real Group Ltd. We will be celebrating this milestone birthday within Real Group and across our sister companies, so keep an eye out for news across the year! If you are a Dyslexia Guild member, keep an eye out for the latest edition of the Dyslexia Review due towards the end of April, which will give an in-depth historical overview of Dyslexia Action over the years. Reflecting on the 50 year history of the company, we are in awe of the hard work and dedication of all the staff and supporters, also our amazing network of hardworking tutors and course delegates.

The Dyslexia Guild Annual Summer Guild Conference will be held on Friday 8 July 2022 at the University of Bath. The Dyslexia Guild membership body, welcomes all those with a professional interest in dyslexia and SpLDs, including specialist teachers and assessors, psychologists, learning support tutors and assistants. Guild members enjoy a preferential rate and we welcome new members to our community from all settings. 

The conference provides, as always, a great opportunity to meet and network with dyslexia/SpLD specialists, it enables practitioners to hear expert views and examine current topical issues relating to literacy and dyslexia/SpLD in a warm and vibrant conference setting. 

What can I expect?

You can expect a warm welcome from our friendly Dyslexia Guild and Dyslexia Action teams, meet researchers and other professionals working in the sector, browse our Dyslexia Action Shop and a selection of other exhibitors, and enjoy a networking lunch. Why not benefit from taking time out of your daily schedule to learn, debate and reflect on cutting-edge practice. An attendance certificate will be provided for your CPD portfolio. View our brochure to give you an idea of what to expect from the day.

Speakers

Confirmed speakers are Dr Valerie Muter, Dr Catherine Manning, Professor Kiki Messiou, Professor Chris Budd OBE. Topics include playful maths, mental wellbeing, literacy difficulties, inclusion, and autism. 

Select your preferred option for attendance

Thursday 7 July and Friday 8 July
Includes evening (networking) two-course buffet dinner, small double ensuite accommodation Thursday evening (Woodlands Court), breakfast, conference, lunch and refreshments Friday.

• Guild Members £165+VAT (£198 inc. VAT)
  Non-Guild Members £195+VAT (£234 inc. VAT)

Friday 8 July – Day Delegate
Includes Friday Conference only, refreshments and lunch.

• Guild Members   £95+VAT (£114 inc. VAT)
• Non-Guild Members £145+VAT (£174 inc. VAT) 

Not yet a member of the Dyslexia Guild? Join now to attend at the member rate.

Full details can be found here

Please note: if you are joining the Guild to receive the members’ conference rate you must join and have confirmation of your membership BEFORE you register for the annual summer conference, the discount cannot be applied in retrospect.

For a detailed brochure and to book your place click here

Recent evidence shared in a January 2022 report by Pro Bono Economics showed that providing continuing professional development (CPD) is key to improving teachers retention. The data suggest improved CPD could result in a 2% rise in the retention rate, equivalent to around 12,000 teachers per year before 2024.

For fifty years, Dyslexia Action Training has helped educators including teaching assistants, SENCOs, instructors, tutors, lecturers and learning support staff by implementing short CPD Units, Awards and Certificates. Our online courses have broadened the educational support professionals require to be better prepared to face the challenges of supporting students with dyslexia and SpLDs in today’s education system.

Dyslexia Action’s Level 4 and 5 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Programme. 

Through a range of Level 4 and 5 CPD short courses, education support professionals can hone their skills and knowledge to be better prepared to face the challenges of supporting students with dyslexia and SpLDs. 

The CPD Programme we offer is quality-assured by The CPD Standards Office is made up of independent short online courses, referred to as Units. These Units can be studied independently or built up over time to gain either an Award (three Units) or a Certificate (two Awards/six CPD Units). This flexible programme offers the opportunity to choose from a range of study options:

• Units – Enhance your skills in a particular area with just one Level 4 or 5 Unit
• Awards – Combine three Units to achieve an Award
• Certificates – Combine two Awards (six Units) to achieve a Certificate
• Diploma – Study one of our CPD Pathway Certificates or The Level 5 Award in Focal Points for Literacy, alongside The Level 5 Certificate in Strategic Teaching Support for Dyslexia and Literacy to achieve The Level 5 Diploma in Strategic Teaching Support for Dyslexia and Literacy (DADIP61).

Unique benefits of studying with Dyslexia Action

We are an established online specialist education training provider. Studying online CPD courses with us means teaching professionals can fit online learning around personal and professional commitments. Other benefits will help our students to

• Add real value to your educational setting, bringing new skills and abilities to create the optimum outcomes for students in your care
• Develop practical competence and personal confidence in your strategies in working with students with literacy challenges learn whilst you study, with our practice-led approach helping embed your new theoretical knowledge in your real-world circumstances.
• Expert tutor support and access to forums online to provide guidance and allow participants to share best practices with peers

Our Level 4 and 5 CPD programme is CPD Standards Office approved, and you will receive a certificate from Dyslexia Action upon completion.

Start a CPD Unit or an Award at a time that suits you!

Level 4 and 5 CPD short courses for teaching professionals at all levels run six times a year with start dates in September, November, January, March, May and July. Our next available for 2021/2022 are:

• 16 March 2022
• 11 May 2022

If you want to apply for any of the above courses, please go to our Make a booking page.

Please note: it takes time to process your application and payment. We recommend registering as soon as possible so you do not miss our next intake. 

Booking options 

• Learn more about one particular area of dyslexia by studying one CPD Unit. The cost of a single Unit is £285 + VAT
• Study three CPD Units to gain an Award* for £855 + VAT

When you book an Award, you will study the first Unit on the Award start date, then the second and third Units will follow in date succession. You will have to complete the three individual Units within one year.

 Get in touch to learn more about our CPD courses and qualifications.

You can contact us via email or call us on +44 (0)1784 222 304 to discuss any of our online training courses. If you have any questions or would like to discuss potential training for colleagues, please do get in touch.

Celebrated every year, on 14 February, in over 50 countries, International Book Giving Day is a 100% volunteer initiative aimed at increasing children’s access to books. 

As the largest established online accredited dyslexia training provider for 50 years, Dyslexia Action Training developed programmes that can help promote and support reading skills in the UK and overseas school setting. Our online Level 4 Developing Reading Skills CPD unit (DACPD84) will help strengthen the expertise and confidence of supporting teaching assistants, SENCOs, instructors, tutors, lecturers and learning support staff will allow them to:

• Compare recent models of reading skills and understand their relevance to readers with dyslexia who are learning English or other alphabetic languages.
• Examine phonological, morphological and orthographic processes underlying reading competence.
• Explain why explicit, structured tuition can help build language awareness in learners with dyslexia.
• Consider the difficulties that readers with dyslexia can face when accessing print.

How is this short course delivered?

The online Level 4 Developing Reading Skills CPD unit(DACPD84) entirely online, offers you the flexibility to organise your time to fit around your professional and personal commitments. It also saves you the time and expense of travel and classroom attendance. 

Accreditation

The Developing Reading Skills (DACPD84) short course is delivered online and is part of the Dyslexia Action Training’s Level 4 and 5 Continuing Professional Development (CPD). Our Level 4 and 5 CPD programme is CPD Standards Office approved. You will receive a certificate from Dyslexia Action upon completion.

What delegates have said about this course 

“Thank you for another informative course that really makes me reflect about what I can do better to better support pupils with dyslexia and also create stronger links when learning to read even with children that don’t find it as challenging!” SS

“I have enjoyed the module and have found the materials provided both interesting and informative.”MM

“Thank you for the help and support from tutors and other learners.  Although at times I have found it challenging, I have been able to use what I have learnt and put this into practice with my students” JA

Start dates

This course runs six times a year with start dates in September, November, January, March, May and July. Our next available for 2022 are:

• 16 March 2022
• 11 May 2022
• 13 July 2022

If you want to apply for any of the above courses, please go to our Make a booking page.

Please note: as it takes time to process your application and payment, we recommend registering as soon as possible. 

Bookings options and fees

Book DACPD84 as a stand-alone CPD unit.  Cost £295+VAT

To book DACPD84, please visit our online booking page and select the date you wish to start.

Book DACPD84 as a part of an Award.  Cost £855+VAT

Awards contain three-set CPD Units. By booking an Award, you will save a total of £30 as opposed to booking the units individually. 

For more information on units included in this Award, please visit the following page:

• Award in Developing Literacy Skills in Learners with Dyslexia – (DAAWD52)
• Award in Supporting International Learners with Dyslexia – (DAAWD67)

Please note: When you book an Award, you will study the first unit on the Award start date, then the second and third unit will follow in date succession. You will have to complete the three individual units within one year.

To book DAAWD52 or DAAWD67, please visit our online booking page and select the date you wish to start.

Is the Developing Reading Skills in Learners with Dyslexia CPD unit part of a Certificate?

This online Level 4 CPD unit is part of the following certificates.

• The Certificate in Supporting Literacy in Learners with Dyslexia (DACRT51)  
• The Certificate in Supporting International Learners with Dyslexia (DACRT67) 

Please note: To achieve a certificate, you must complete six set individual CPD units or two set Awards.

Please note bookings close to two weeks before the start date.

Have you heard of The Dyslexia Guild?

Established in 1994, The Dyslexia Guild is open to all those with a professional or general interest in dyslexia and specific learning difficulties (SpLD) both in the UK and overseas.

Professional members hold designatory letters involve:

• Primary and secondary teachers
• SENCOs and teaching assistants 
• Further and Higher Education support tutors 
• And advisory specialists. 

Our network is also highly relevant to dyslexia and specific learning disability assessors, librarians and other specialists through Affiliate membership.

Benefits of joining The Dyslexia Guild

The Dyslexia Guild provides a wealth of benefits to its members:

• discounted professional development courses
• online forums
• an annual summer conference 
• a range of publications available through our unique online library, membership journal, and e-newsletter

Get in touch with us

If you would like to learn more about Dyslexia Action Training courses and qualifications, do not hesitate to get in touch. 

• Dyslexia Action Training trainingcourses@dyslexiaaction.org.uk.-  +44 (0) 1784 222304
• The Dyslexia Guild guild@dyslexiaaction.org.uk – +44 (0) 1784 222342.

Are you looking to train to become a specialist teacher/practitioner or teacher/practitioner- assessor in specific learning difficulties (SpLD)? Then our newly restructured, MEd Dyslexia Action Literacy Programme (DALP) is ideal for you!

There has recently been a huge interest in developing skills to be able to support and assess learners with SpLD and literacy difficulties both across the UK and overseas.  Over the past few months, our highly skilled education support team has worked extensively to restructure our level 7 postgraduate programme.  We are delighted to announce the launch of The Master of Education Professional Practice in Dyslexia and Literacy and its related programmes.

The Dyslexia Action MEd Professional Practice in Dyslexia and Literacy is a unique and prestigious programme at Master’s Level 7.  It provides training for qualified teachers to become informed practitioners, specialist teachers and/or teacher assessors.

The programme is modular, flexible and is undertaken part-time, through online learning. Access is available 24/7 to the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) and all modules are tutor-supported through online learning and forums.

This online distance learning programme was developed and is delivered and assessed, by Dyslexia Action Training (part of the Real Group). Dyslexia Action is the leading provider of accredited training and we have successfully delivered more than 15,000 courses to education professionals since 2010 and many more since we were first established in 1972.

Structure of the MEd Dyslexia Action Literacy Programme

 Or the following route can be chosen

Accreditation 

The MEd is also awarded and quality assured by Middlesex University. The Postgraduate Certificate and Diploma programmes are also recognised by several professional SpLD membership bodies for accredited specialist teacher/practitioner/assessor status (subject to approval).

How is the programme delivered?

The MEd Professional Practice programmes use the VLE Moodle and will allow candidates to benefit from expert tutor support through forums and connect with their peers.

Learn whilst you study, with our practice-led approach helping embed your new theoretical knowledge in your real-world circumstances. Some of the six-month modules may also require you to be involved in practical teaching and assessment whilst others are more theoretically based.

The core curriculum is delivered by means of a range of e-learning resources. These include presentations, articles, exercises, videos and follow-up activities and tasks for participants to carry out at intervals.

There is no attendance required for this course or expectations to be online at specific times for ‘live’ learning. This gives candidates the flexibility to organise their study time around professional and personal commitments.

Other benefits

Exclusive access to the Dyslexia Action Literacy Programme (DALP), a comprehensive specialist literacy programme for SpLD Specialist Teachers.  DALP provides a pathway for learners with literacy difficulties of all ages, through individual placement identification

Candidates will automatically become student members of The Dyslexia Guild for the first year of their course while they are actively studying on a Professional Certificate or Diploma Programme with Dyslexia Action.

Are you eligible?

Brief summary of entry requirements

• For graduates holding a degree qualification who are looking to obtain University credits.
• Currently employed (or very recently, within the last two/three years) in a school or college setting to work with learners with literacy difficulties/dyslexia/SpLD in the UK or overseas.
• Commit to 20 hours of study per week, per module.
• Excellent spoken and written English.
• IELTS 7 for applicants with English as a Second Language

You can find details of the postgraduate level programmes here, with further details on eligibility, demands of the course, fees and a detailed syllabus brochure. Those not accepted onto the level 7 programme, may be offered an alternative route through our Level 5 programme.

Once you have viewed the programme information through our website, and if you have further questions, please contact trainingcourses@dyslexiaaction.org.uk

Register Today 

Start Dates. Each six-month learning semester will run twice a year, starting in April and October, registration is currently open for our cohort in April 2022.  

Please note: Places are limited to 20 spaces for the April 2022 cohort so please apply as soon as possible, details are below.

How to register for the programme

Step 1: Visit our website and select the route you wish to study. Ensure you read all the information provided before applying.

Step 2: Download, complete and save the Application Form and entry essay.

Step 3: Upload your completed application form, degree certificate and ID document to the relevant registration area on the selected programme page.

Once your initial application has been accepted it will be reviewed by the postgraduate administration team.  Once you are offered a place on the course you will be emailed with further details of how to register online for your first module and make your payment.

Once you have viewed the programme information through our website, and if you have further questions, please contact trainingcourses@dyslexiaaction.org.uk.

Are you looking for CPD training to expand your skills and to help overcome today’s challenges in schools? 

An online review shared by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) highlighted that Continuing Professional Development (CPD) must be provided to help educators who support students with dyslexia and other literacy and specific learning difficulties (SpLD)  engage with their learning and develop their abilities. Additionally, undertaking CPD accredited training is giving educators the opportunity to ensure their qualifications, and therefore their skills and knowledge, are maintained and up to date. 

What can Dyslexia Action Training do to help broaden my knowledge while supporting those around me? 

For 40 years, Dyslexia Action Training has been supporting teaching assistants, SENCOs, instructors, tutors, lecturers and learning support staff working overseas by implementing short CPD units, awards and certificates. 

Dyslexia Action’s Level 4 & 5 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Programme. 

Through a range of Level 4 and 5 CPD short courses, education support professionals can hone their skills and knowledge in order to be better prepared to face the challenges of supporting students with dyslexia and SpLDs in a classroom setting. The CPD Programme we offer is quality-assured by The CPD Standards Office and is made of independent short online courses, referred to as units. These units allow you to build up your own programme over time to gain either an Award (three units) or a Certificate (two awards/six units). 

What are the benefits of joining the Dyslexia Action CPD Programme?

Our CPD courses have been set up to:

• Add real value to your educational setting, bringing new skills and abilities to create the optimum outcomes for students in your care
• Develop practical competence and personal confidence in your strategies in working with students with literacy challenges
• Learn whilst you study, with our practice-led approach helping embed your new theoretical knowledge in your real-world circumstances
• Studying online CPD courses which fit around personal and professional commitments
• Support from a team of specialist tutors 
• Start a CPD pathway that will allow you to progress to The Certificate in Strategic Teaching Support for Dyslexia and Literacy to gain a recognised Level 5 SpLD Teacher/Practitioner qualification – The Level 5 Diploma in Strategic Teaching Support for Dyslexia and Literacy
• Once completed, The Level 5 Diploma would make you eligible for Associate Membership (ADG) of The Dyslexia Guild

Level 4 Online Certificate in Supporting International Learners with Dyslexia

The Level 4 Certificate in Supporting International Learners with Dyslexia is created by experts with real-world educational experience to empower delegates with practical and actionable skills, allowing you not only to engage with students with increased confidence but also to create a pathway for professional progression.

Course content 

The Level 4 Certificate in Supporting International Learners with Dyslexia contains two awards/six CPD units. 

Award in Perspectives on Dyslexia DAAWD51:

• Dyslexia and Co-occurring Difficulties (DACPD51)
• Dyslexia: Supporting Individuals with Memory Weaknesses (DACPD52)
• Structured, Cumulative Multisensory Tuition for Learners with Dyslexia (DACPD53)

Award in Supporting International Learners with Dyslexia DAAWD67:

• Developing Reading Skills in Learners with Dyslexia (DACPD84)
• Developing Writing Skills in Learners with Dyslexia (DACPD85)
• Dyslexia in Multilingual Settings (DACPD94)

Alternative CPD Unit: Developing Numeracy Skills in Learners with Dyslexia and Dyscalculia (DACPD99) can be swapped out for either DACPD84 or DACPD85

Booking options to achieve this certificate

Option 1- Complete two Awards Courses. Book a set of three CPD units to achieve an Award. Completion of DAAWD51 and DAAWD67 will give you Certificate 67.

Option 2 – Complete six Individual CPD Units. Study DACPD51, 52, 53, 84, 85 or 94 individually to achieve Certificate 67.

What delegates say about our courses 

Level 4 Certificate in Supporting International Learners with Dyslexia (DACRT67)

“The support offered here is excellent, the tutors are always available to help and I would highly recommend you study with Dyslexia Action.”

“This is an excellent short CPD course for me and I have enjoyed every single minute of it. I am very pleased that the course ran during the summer period, as this is the only time I can do any course to improve my skills. The tutors are very supportive.”

Have you heard of The Emotionally Connected Classroom? 

Today, we are pleased to announce that our online Level 5 CPD SEMH course The Emotionally Connected Classroom won three stars for the CPD Category in The Teach Primary Awards 2021. Here is what one of the judges said:

“A specialist Level 5 CPD programme, this online training is in-depth and rigorously designed to develop practitioners’ SEMH skills in a range of settings. Participants can flexibly access course content and collaborative discussion forums around their in-school commitments.” – Teacher Development Trust  

If you are interested in how relationships and connections can have an impact on pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH), then why not take a look at this CPD unit. More details on The Emotionally Connected Classroom can be found here.

Special offer – To celebrate the win, we are offering a 10% discount for those interested in applying for The Emotionally Connected Classroom Level 5 online course for our November, January and March cohort!  To take advantage of the offer, use code 10OFFSEMH when submitting an online booking form.

How to use the discount code. The price of the course is £295 + VAT (£354 with VAT included). If this is of interest to you or a colleague, there is still time to register by completing an online booking form here and applying the discount code on the registration form. The price will then show as £318.60 including VAT. The discount code cannot be given in retrospect.

Find out more about our range of CPD courses and qualifications

You can contact us via email or call us on +44 (0)1784 222 304 to discuss any of our online training courses. If you have any questions or would like to discuss potential training for colleagues within your setting please do get in touch/

Dyslexia Action Training has continued to support educators working with learners in a further or higher education setting. With the ongoing worldwide pandemic, it has never been important for current and aspiring study skills tutors to be able to continue supporting students and young adults with specific learning difficulties (SpLDs).

In order to meet DSA Band Four Study Skills requirements to help support learners with dyslexia and SpLDs and become confident specialists in one-to-one study skills.  Tutors and educational professionals are required to hold a membership with a recognised SpLD professional body. 

Associate FE/HE of The Dyslexia Guild (ADG FE/HE)

The Dyslexia Guild has a clearly defined membership grade for Study Skills Support Tutors which is Associate Member Further and Higher Education (ADG FE/HE).

Our established Supporting Adults Programme is suitable for those working with adults who have dyslexia and literacy difficulties and is appropriate for a variety of settings including specialist one to one study skills tutors working in FE/HE. 

Supporting Adults Certificate Pathway Programme Structure 

Support tutors, learning support staff in further or higher education settings working towards our Supporting Adults Certificate will learn to tailor and enhance students’ individual needs by developing a range of strategies and skills to improve the learner journey.  Subject topics include:

• supporting memory weaknesses
• using assistive technologies to overcome barriers in literacy 
• developing study skills to improve students access to learning
• nurturing the development of writing skills

This Adult and FE/HE SpLD Teacher/Practitioner programme comprises six CPD units. Each CPD unit equates to 30 hours of study. The units can be studied individually or as part of an Award (when booking three set CPD units). The structure is as follows:

Award in Supporting Adults with Dyslexia and Co-occurring Difficulties DAAWD59:

Supporting Adults with Dyslexia and Co-occurring Difficulties (DACPD91)

Supporting Study Skills in Adults with Dyslexia (DACPD92)

Developing Literacy Skills with Assistive Technology (DACPD96)

Award in Learning Support for Adults with Dyslexia DAAWD60:

Supporting Individuals with Memory Weaknesses (DACPD52)

Developing Writing Skills in Adults with Dyslexia (DACPD93)

Dyslexia in Multilingual Settings (DACPD94)

Optional unit (can be swapped with DACPD93 or DACPD94):
Developing Numeracy Skills in Learners with Dyslexia and Dyscalculia (DACPD99)

Who can join this programme 

The certificate is mapped against Ofqual Level 5 descriptors, you can find information on the National Qualifications Framework.  It allows educators who have already completed Level 3 courses the opportunity to achieve a Level 5 certificate.  It is suitable for qualified learning or adult support tutors currently or previously within the last 2 years employed to work with learners in a further or higher education setting.

Accreditation 

Our Level 5 CPD Adults certificate pathway is approved by The CPD Standards Office 

Testimonials

Level 5 Developing Literacy Skills with Assistive Technology (DACPD96)

What would you say to someone who was thinking about booking this course with Dyslexia Action?

“Do it! They are really accessible, of really good quality and really develop knowledge and skills” – Megan Bradburn

“I really feel my knowledge is renewed and that I have more to give my students every time I complete one of your courses” – Amanda Barnard

Level 5 Supporting Study Skills in Adults with Dyslexia (DACPD92)

“Highly recommend.  Very professional.  Good guidance/support.  Structured Virtual Learning Environment” – Karen Wilkinson

“For those without specific dyslexia training like me this course is extremely valuable!” – Lisa Bryce

Booking options to enrol on the Supporting Adults Pathway (DACRT56)

Option 1 – Book six individual CPD units

You book units DACPD91, 92, 96, 52, 93 and 94 individually.

CPD Unit Cost – £295 + VAT

To book one CPD unit, please visit our online booking page and select the unit and date you wish to start.

Please note bookings close 2 weeks before the start date.

Option 2 – Book an Award (3 CPD units)

Awards contain three-set CPD Units. By booking an Award you will save a total of £30 as opposed to booking the units individually. 

For more information on the Awards that these units are included in please visit the following page:

• Award in Supporting Adults with Dyslexia and Co-occurring Difficulties (DAAWD59)

• Award in  Learning Support for Adults with Dyslexia (DAAWD60)

Award Cost – £855 + VAT

Please note: When an Award is booked, participants will study the first unit on the Award start date, the second and third unit will follow in date succession. All three individual units must be completed within a one-year period.

To book DAAWD59 or DAAWD60, please visit our online booking page and select the date you wish to start.

Please note bookings close 2 weeks before the start date.

How to register for the supporting adult’s programme

Whenever you are ready to book, please follow these simple steps:

1. Choose your CPD unit(s) or award(s). A description of all our available courses can be found here.
2. Go to our booking page online to select your chosen unit or award and the date you wish to start 
3. On the next page, click ‘Register‘ to complete and submit the form

“Today or any day that phone may ring and bring good news” – Ethel Waters

As a leading provider of accredited training, we believe it is fundamental to provide opportunities for teachers and practitioners at all levels to continue their professional development. Helping them to maintain their skills and be prepared to meet the individual needs of children who have special education needs or disabilities (SEND).

We have successfully delivered more than 15,000 courses to education professionals since 2010. Specialising in the areas of dyslexia and specific learning difficulties (SpLDs). Last year, we released a new short CPD course to allow teaching assistants, learning support assistants and SENCOs to be better equipped to support learners with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs in a classroom setting.

Today, it is with great honour that we are able to announce our Level 5 SEMH CPD online course The Emotionally Connected Classroom has been awarded 3-star winner in the CPD category of the Teach Primary Awards 2021!

Here is what one of the judges said:

“A specialist Level 5 CPD programme, this online training is in-depth and rigorously designed to develop practitioners’ SEMH skills in a range of settings. Participants can flexibly access course content and collaborative discussion forums around their in-school commitments.” – Teacher Development Trust

Overview

This short course provides an overview of the importance of building relationships and meaningful connections as an aspect of SEMH. It explores the impact of emotions on the thinking brain and its implications for learning. Participants will be able to look at key elements of current research and practice in mentalisation theory as well as emotional coaching. On completion of the course the participant will be able to:

• Understand the impact of stress and trauma on the brain
• Discuss pupils’ emotions and the impact this can have on their behaviour
• Identify ideas for developing relational based practice in your provision
• Apply strategies to build pupils resources and resilience to manage their emotions

Who is the course suitable for?

The course is ‘one of a kind’ and is mapped against the Ofqual Level 5 descriptors.  It allows educators who have already completed Level 3 courses the opportunity to achieve a Level 5 qualification. It is suitable for teaching support roles and teachers, SENCOs alongside other SEND professionals working in primary or secondary education, either currently or previously within the last two years.

Unique benefits of studying with Dyslexia Action

Dyslexia Action is an established online specialist education training provider. When studying with us, we offer participants the flexibility to organise their study time around professional and personal commitments. Other benefits include:

• Access to a custom-built VLE platform Campus Online to complete the course
• Expert tutor support and access to forums online to provide guidance and allow participants to share best practices with peers
• Achievement of a course worth 3 credits at Level 5 (30 hours of total study over 7 weeks) that are quality-assured by The CPD Standards Office.

How to apply for The Emotionally Connected Classroom Level 5 SEMH CPD Course

This online Level 5 course runs four times a year in November, January, March and July. 

The price of the course is £295 + VAT (£354 with VAT included) If this is of interest to you or a colleague, there is still time to register by completing an online booking form here. Apply the discount code on the registration form.  The price will then show as £318.60 including VAT.  The discount code cannot be given in retrospect.

Alternatively, please feel free to get in touch with the Dyslexia Action enquiries team or call on +44(0) 1784 222304 if you have any questions.

“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.”- Dr. Seuss

At Dyslexia Action we believe it is important to provide education professionals with opportunities to continue their professional development to help support learners with dyslexia and specific learning difficulties (SpLDs). As we are entering Dyslexia Awareness Week, it is crucial that we continue to raise awareness to better understand dyslexia. Indeed, research carried out by Cambridge University has shown that “10% of children have dyslexic type learning differences which means that in a class of 30, there’s a possibility you have at least 3 children with dyslexia.’’ According to the charity Progress Lifeline, some of the signs of dyslexia include reading and writing very slowly, confusing the order of letters in words or having poor or inconsistent spelling.  As part of Dyslexia Awareness Week, we have compiled some information for professionals who have an interest in Dyslexia and SpLD training or becoming part of a professional body:

• An Overview of an SpLD Professional Body: The Dyslexia Guild
• What does it mean for CPD to be accredited?
• How can Dyslexia Action Training and Professional Development courses help education professionals to meet membership standards? 

What can I do to improve my knowledge and support those around me?

Join an SpLD Professional Body: What are they & who should join?

There are many SpLD membership organisations including The Dyslexia Guild, the British Dyslexia Association, PATOSS and ADSHe.  All have the same goal but can offer different benefits.

The Dyslexia Guild: Overview of an SpLD Professional Body

What is The Dyslexia Guild? Established in 1994, The Dyslexia Guild is a network of SpLD professionals who are keen to maintain contact and further their specialist teaching, assessment and support for those with dyslexia and other literacy difficulties. The Dyslexia Guild aims to promote discussion, information and research as well as keeping members informed of developments in the field through publication and distribution.

Who are members of the Dyslexia Guild? Professional members include primary and secondary teachers, SENCOs and teaching assistants as well as Further and Higher Education support tutors and advisory specialists. Our network is also highly relevant to dyslexia and specific learning disability assessors, librarians and other specialists through Affiliate membership.

Why should I join the Dyslexia Guild and how will I benefit? The Dyslexia Guild provides a wealth of benefits to its members including online forums, a vibrant annual conference and a range of publications available through our unique online library, membership journal, and e-newsletter. Members benefit from post-nominals as well as the unique heritage of this specialist professional organisation.

Why not gain CPD Accredited Training?

The importance of Accredited CPD training. As explained by The CPD Certification Service, CPD stands for Continuing Professional Development and is the term used to describe the learning activities professionals engage in to develop and enhance their abilities. Accredited CPD training means the learning activity has reached the required Continuing Professional Development standards and benchmarks of an accredited body. The learning value has been scrutinised to ensure integrity and quality. By undertaking CPD accredited training, educators are given the opportunity to ensure their qualifications, and therefore their skills and knowledge, are maintained and up to date. 

Dyslexia Action’s Level 4 & 5 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Programme. Dyslexia Action Training and Professional Development has been delivering programmes in dyslexia and other specific learning difficulties (SpLDs) for over 40 years and has an established professional partnership with The Dyslexia Guild. Through a range of Level 4 and 5 CPD short courses, education support professionals can hone their skills and knowledge in order to be better prepared to face the challenges of supporting students with dyslexia and SpLDs in today’s education system. All courses are practice-led, delivered online and are fully supported by a tutor.

CPD Standards Office Accreditation. Dyslexia Action has been successfully assessed as an online CPD provider by The CPD Standards Office and has received formal independent CPD accreditation for its online units. All our units will be issued with a Dyslexia Action Certificate of Completion. This certificate can subsequently be used within a formal CPD record for a professional body or employer. A list of all CPD Units and Awards can be found here. 

Summary

We hope that this article has provided you with some useful insights into CPD and SpLD Professional Bodies. If you have any thoughts on the topics covered, why not share them with us below?

If you are considering furthering your professional development via one of our accredited CPD units please feel free to get in touch with us via email or call us on +44 (0) 1784 222304. Alternatively, if you would like to learn more about The Dyslexia Guild, you can give them a call on +44 (0) 1784 222342.

We have been shortlisted for The Teach Primary Awards 2021!

With an enormous amount of excitement, we are now able to announce that The Emotionally Connected Classroom online Level 5 course was shortlisted for the CPD Category in The Teach Primary Awards 2021.

It is amazing for us to receive accolades from industry experts like The Teach Company Awards who also named us a three-star winner in the same category during The Teach Secondary Awards 2020 for our online Dyslexia and Literacy CPD Programme.

The Teach Primary Awards 2021

The Teach Company Awards are aimed at helping teachers in finding the greatest educational resources. Finalists and winners are chosen by a team of education professionals based on how entries score in key areas including originality and educational impact. You can learn more about them here.

This Level 5 online course introduces how relationships and connections can be developed in a classroom environment to help support pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. By studying this short 7-week CPD course, you will be able to understand how emotions can be influenced by the thinking brain and the consequences learning can have in the classroom. 

Who can join this course?

The Emotionally Connected Classroom course may be useful if SEMH is an area of interest for you or if you are looking to complement your knowledge in SEND. Additionally, this level 5 course is suitable for your colleagues if those working in teaching support roles and teachers, SENCOs, and other SEND professionals. 

Unique benefits of studying this course with Dyslexia Action 

Dyslexia Action is an established online specialist education training provider. For 40 years, we have been supporting online Continuing Professional Development (CPD) training for international schools as well as UK-based educators. We offer participants the flexibility to organise their study time around professional and personal commitments when studying us. Other benefits include:

1. Access to a custom-built VLE  platform Campus Online to complete the course
2. Expert tutor support and access to forums online to provide guidance and allow participants to share best practices with peers
3. Achievement of a course worth 3 credits at Level 5 (30 hours of total study over a 7-week period) that are quality-assured by The CPD Standards Office.

What our delegates say about The Emotionally Connected Classroom

“I found a lot of the course material extremely interesting. I especially like the video context and the presentation. Dyslexia Action have excelled!” R.T.

“I have absolutely loved this course – it was exactly what I felt was missing from my ‘toolkit’ and now I can make sure that the impact is shared more widely in my new setting for the benefit of the children we serve. Thank you.” S.O.

“The course was perfect, the timing, the material, tasks were very well planned.” S.H

How to apply for The Emotionally Connected Classroom

This online Level 5 course runs six times a year in September, November, January, March, May, and July.  The price of the course is £295 + VAT If this is of interest to you or a colleague, there is still time to register by completing an online booking form here. 

Booking options to join our 15 September cohort 

• 1 September if you paying later/invoice required upfront. This involves a £30 + VAT fee at the time of registration. 
•  8 September credit/debit if you wish to pay by card at the time of registration

Interested in other short CPD courses? Take a look at our Dyslexia and Literacy CPD Programme here.

Alternatively, please feel free to get in touch with the Dyslexia Action enquiries team or call on +44(0) 1784 222304 if you have any questions.