Literacy Difficulties – The DYT Position

DYT have published a new position paper that explains what we mean by ‘literacy difficulties’, the challenge they pose, and what needs to change to ensure every learner is able to thrive.

The DYT definition…

Literacy difficulties are persistent difficulty in reading, writing, speaking and/or listening that may not be responsive to standard education approaches and requires further intervention. Literacy difficulties are found on a continuum scale of severity; all should be recognised and supported.

The challenge…

Literacy difficulties that are not addressed cost the economy millions each year; they embed economic disadvantage, limit attainment and are linked to behaviour and mental health issues.

The education system is failing learners with literacy difficulties. They are rarely covered during initial teacher training – 1 in 7 Ofsted inspection reports fail to mention SEN – and teachers report that CPD in this area is inadequate. There is a lack of accountability to scrutinise the issue and a lack of resource to address it.

What needs to change…

Our position paper makes recommendations to Ofsted, the Department for Education, researchers and educationalists to improve support for learners with literacy difficulties across all age ranges.

DYT’s CEO Chris Rossiter, said, “the research cited in our new Position Paper highlights an increasing need to match up rhetoric and action. We have identified the impact literacy difficulties have on individuals and society and the areas where the education system is failing these learners. We will be using this paper to call for greater recognition and support of learners with literacy difficulties from policy-makers and teachers alike.

What is DYT doing?

DYT works in schools to build capacity and train teachers in the classroom. Our work is rooted in evidence and we draw on a pool of expertise to support schools to deliver inclusive literacy strategies that help all students. We will continue to champion those in society who struggle with literacy and promote inclusion.

Read DYT’s position paper on literacy difficulties here.

Join the discussion on twitter #DYTLiteracy