Page 52 - Part-A

Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties

The importance of working with an individual’s strengths
and abilities to enable them to achieve their potential

Because the symptoms and needs of individuals with SpLDs vary so much, every
child and young person should be assessed carefully and appropriately to enable
identification of their particular needs and the most suitable, high quality support.
Interventions should always be based on sound evidence and enable the child or
young person to make progress and achieve to the best of their abilities, developing
a range of skills and experiences that will help them to play an active part in society.

Negative experiences at school can affect many aspects of future life for a young
person, affecting their ability to manage their personal lives, relationships, and
perform well in the workplace. These issues can mean that the individual’s overall
well-being is affected and they become more vulnerable to mental health problems
including stress, anxiety and depression.

Adjustments made in the workplace for staff with dyslexia can improve motivation,
loyalty and efficiency, and so benefit the company overall.

How positive aspects of Specific Learning Difficulties
can benefit different settings

Some people with dyslexia have strengths in particular areas, such as creativity and
seeing the bigger picture. From an employer’s point of view, awareness of these
strengths may benefit the organisation.

Often what the individual with an SpLD needs and wants are the resources and
strategies to help them show their talents and maximise their skills in their workplace.
Making an organisation SpLD friendly can reduce stress, staff turnover and sick leave.

Many people know about Richard Branson, Richard Rogers and Tom Cruise as famous
dyslexics but may not have heard of Gary Cohn, the former CEO of Goldman Sachs, a
leading global investment banking, securities and investment management firm, who
is also dyslexic and puts his success down to his dyslexia.

Training and raising awareness for teachers helps staff look at a child’s strengths, not
just difficulties, and have a better understanding of the impact of their teaching.

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