Two more schools in North Tyneside have been presented with the North Tyneside ‘Inclusive Dyslexia Friendly Schools’ (IDFS) award.
It means a total of eight schools in the borough have now received the award.
North Tyneside’s Elected Mayor Norma Redfearn presented the award to the staff and pupils at Appletree Gardens First School in Monkseaton and Rockcliffe First School in Whitley Bay.
The award was designed by the North Tyneside Dyslexia Team which is made up of specialist teachers trained to assess and teach children who have specific difficulties with literacy skills. This year’s award winners have found the process to be beneficial for all of their pupils.
Norma Redfearn said: “I am delighted that two more schools in the borough have received this award.
“The North Tyneside Dyslexia Team does a lot of excellent work in helping children who struggle with literacy and it is really encouraging to see our schools embracing this important project.”
Mary MacKenzie, Team Leader of the North Tyneside Dyslexia Team, said: “Both schools lay solid foundations for developing literacy skills, starting with excellent practice in the Early Years Foundation Stages. They also have strong links and clear lines of communication with parents.”
Schools work hard for a year to gain the award and have to demonstrate that they have a ‘whole school’ approach to supporting pupils with literacy difficulties. They teach reading and spelling systematically at all stages.
In addition, they provide effective, targeted support when needed and help pupils to transfer their skills back into the classroom. In this way, they aim to help pupils achieve their potential. Lessons and homework are made accessible to all pupils and links with parents are strengthened.
Lynsey Wilson, Rockcliffe Assistant Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator, said: “Applying for the IDFS award has been a supportive process. It has allowed us to refine good practice to make it even better.
“Staff have become more effective in early identification of dyslexia and more confident in providing a learning environment that is even more inclusive. Staff feel that small changes in day to day practice can make a big difference for all children, not just those with dyslexia. “
Tracey Johnson, Special Educational Needs Coordinator at Appletree Gardens, said: “The IDFS award is instrumental in ensuring that the learning environment in your school is both stimulating and inclusive. Working towards the award has resulted in a greater level of achievement, retention and engagement for all our learners."
Work begins in September with more North Tyneside schools which are aiming to achieve the award. They are keen to develop their skills in catering for pupils with literacy issues and providing a ‘dyslexia friendly’ approach.
ENDS