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Dyslexia Specialist: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path

Career Overview
Interview Questions

What is a Dyslexia Specialist?

A Dyslexia Specialist is an expert in teaching strategies catered to individuals with dyslexia, a type of learning difficulty that affects reading and writing skills. In this role, you would provide tailored educational plans, use specific teaching methods to help students overcome their learning challenges, and work closely with other educational professionals and parents for the student's progress.

How do I become a Dyslexia Specialist?

A Dyslexia Specialist is an expert in teaching strategies catered to individuals with dyslexia, a type of learning difficulty that affects reading and writing skills. In this role, you would provide tailored educational plans, use specific teaching methods to help students overcome their learning challenges, and work closely with other educational professionals and parents for the student's progress.

What would you like to know?

What does it take to become an Dyslexia Specialist?

Skills, education, personality, career progression

Job demand for an Dyslexia Specialist

Job ads, popular location, season to apply



Skills

  • Knowledge of dyslexia and other specific learning difficulties
  • Ability to assess and diagnose dyslexia
  • Expertise in developing individualized education plans for students with dyslexia
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills to work with students, parents, and other professionals
  • Effective teaching strategies and techniques to support students with dyslexia
  • Patience and empathy to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment
  • Ability to adapt and modify curriculum materials to meet the needs of students with dyslexia
  • Knowledge of assistive technology and tools for dyslexic learners
  • Continuous professional development to stay updated with the latest research and best practices in dyslexia support

Qualifications & Education

  • A first degree that provides QTS (qualified teacher status) or TQ (teaching qualification) in Scotland
  • Other relevant degree followed by further postgraduate training, such as PGCE or PGDE
  • Prior experience in mainstream teaching
  • Further training for special needs teaching may be mandatory

Career Path

Dyslexia Specialist
Special Education Teacher
Special Education Coordinator
Director of Special Education
Education Consultant
Learning Support Assistant
Special Needs Teacher
Educational Psychologist
Speech and Language Therapist
Speech and Language Therapy Manager
Clinical Lead in Speech and Language Therapy
Occupational Therapist
Senior Occupational Therapist
Head of Occupational Therapy Department
Assistive Technology Specialist
Accessibility Consultant

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a job with dyslexia?

Yes, it is possible to get a job with dyslexia. While dyslexia may present challenges in certain areas, there are jobs and employers that are understanding and accommodating. It is important to focus on your strengths and skills, and to seek out opportunities that align with your abilities. Additionally, there are resources and support available to help individuals with dyslexia succeed in the workplace.

How do you become a dyslexia specialist?

To become a dyslexia specialist in the UK, you need to successfully complete a Level 5 or Level 7 Accredited Teacher/Practitioner Status (AT/PS) accredited course or equivalent. After completing the training, you can apply for Accredited Teacher/Practitioner Status (AT/PS) with the BDA.

What does a specialist dyslexia teacher do?

A specialist dyslexia teacher helps students with dyslexia understand how they learn best and teaches them different strategies and learning styles to overcome their challenges.

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