The Department of Education and Children is consulting parents and the wider public over a new policy on dyslexia.

The current policy dates back to 2002 and has been updated in line with current research.

Comments are invited on the new policy and accompanying guidance document for parents and teachers.

It is estimated that 10 per cent of children are dyslexic or have difficulty with the written word. Learning to read and spell is more difficult for dyslexic children than for non-dyslexic children. Dyslexia exists on a spectrum, with some individuals mildly dyslexic and others more severely affected.

Sally Brookes, Director of Services for Children with the DEC, said: ‘It is hoped that by following the new policy and guidance, teachers and parents will be more able to improve the educational outcomes and life chances for dyslexic children. The documents aim to do this by raising awareness and understanding of dyslexia and improving assessment and intervention practices in schools.’

Mrs Brookes continued: ‘The documents will be of interest to the parents and teachers of children either identified as being dyslexic, or who struggle with reading and/or spelling but are not, as yet, identified as dyslexic. They may also be of interest to employers who have dyslexic individuals in their workforce.’

The documents can be found at http://www.gov.im/Consultations.gov and click on ‘current consultations’.

Comments should be sent to:
Joyce Monroe
Senior Educational Psychologist
Department of Education and Children
Hamilton House
Peel Road
Douglas IM1 5EZ
Tel: 01624 698300
Email: j.monroe@special.sch.im

The closing date for the consultation is Friday 11th May.

Because dyslexia can run in families, the DEC recognises that some parents may have difficulty reading the policy and guidance documents, so they can request sound files via Mrs Monroe.

The finalised policy and guidance will be implemented in schools from September 2012.