Question reference: S5W-34842
- Asked by: Margaret Mitchell, MSP for Central Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party
- Date lodged: 28 January 2021
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Current status: Answered by John Swinney on 4 February 2021
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what quality assurance measures are in place in local authorities in relation to the identification of secondary school pupils with dyslexia; what its position is on whether these measures are (a) appropriate and robust in relation to the levels of identification and (b) addressing the issue of low identification rates.
Answer
We want all children and young people, including those with dyslexia, to receive the support they need to reach their full potential. The Additional Support for Learning Act places duties on education authorities to identify, provide for and review the additional support needs of their pupils. We are committed to supporting teachers and school staff to meet these needs.
We have provided a range of free professional learning opportunities for teachers aimed at supporting practitioners to further develop their knowledge, understanding and skills in supporting learners with dyslexia, and reduce barriers to learning. This includes the Addressing Dyslexia Toolkit and identification pathway, launched in 2017, and the Dyslexia and Inclusive Practice online professional learning modules, which enable staff to gain professional recognition in this area.
A formal identification of dyslexia is not required in order for a pupil to access support.