Pupils with dyslexia should get better deal, say school inspectors

Published on Monday 27 October 2008 18:23

DYSLEXIC children in Scotland are being let down because of a patchwork-quilt of specialist provision, according to a new report.

A shortage of specialist teachers for children with dyslexia was highlighted by HM Inspectorate of Education, which said pupils benefited most when teachers had received training in dealing with the condition. Inspectors were also critical of the variety of definitions of dyslexia used by different local authorities.

The report said: "Such a mix of views can cause confusion for newly qualifi1ed and practising teachers. Teachers and learners should have updated, accessible and practical advice on dyslexia and its impact on young people including co-occurrence with other additional support needs."

The report pointed out that less than 16 per cent of local authorities held information centrally on how many children in their area had dyslexia or how many teachers had experience or specialist qualifications.

Inspectors found parents and children reported "considerable variation in provision for dyslexia support". They said: "Across primary and secondary schools, there was a need for more consistency in providing appropriate support."

Early intervention was also recommended, which is likely to boost the call for more nursery teachers. Many councils are replacing them with nursery nurses in a bid to save money.