What is Dyslexia?

Dyslexia is a neurological difference that can have a significant impact during education, in the workplace and in everyday life.

Many dyslexic people find it challenging to process information they see or hear, which can influence learning and the development of literacy skills—and sometimes maths. Difficulties with memory and organisation can also occur.

Dyslexia is not related to intelligence and can appear alongside other specific learning differences. It often runs in families and is a lifelong condition. Because every individual has a unique combination of strengths and challenges, each person’s experience of dyslexia is different.

It’s equally important to recognise the positives of thinking differently. Many dyslexic people show notable strengths in areas such as reasoning, visual thinking, and creative problem‑solving.

Signs of Dyslexia

Common signs to look out for are:

  • Slow speed of working when reading or writing

  • Difficulty in blending letters together

  • Missing out words, failing to recognise familiar words and adding extra words when reading

  • Hesitant reading or reading that lacks expression

  • Needing to re-read several times to comprehend

  • Difficulty identifying the most important information from a passage

  • Confusing the order of letters in reading / writing

  • Confusing similar letters e.g. b / d, p / q, p / q, m / w, n / u

  • Struggling to remember sequences e.g. the alphabet, times tables

  • Word finding difficulties

  • Struggling to transfer ideas / thoughts down onto paper

  • Weak or inconsistent spelling, often spelling the same word several different ways

  • A lower standard of written work compared to oral ability

  • Handwriting difficulties with letter reversals and / or poorly formed letters

  • Appearing to have poor concentration

  • Difficulty remembering instructions

  • A lack of confidence and low self-esteem.

Useful Links

British Dyslexia Association (bdadyslexia.org.uk)

Dyslexia ScotlandDyslexia Scotland - Empowering people with dyslexia to reach their full potential

The SpLD Assessment Standards Committee (SASC)

Access Arrangements, Reasonable Adjustments and Special Consideration - JCQ Joint Council for Qualifications

Disabled Students Allowance

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