Awards to recognise teachers who empower dyslexic pupils 

Teachers and learning support staff who consistently inspire and empower dyslexic students to reach for the stars are set to receive recognition at the UK-wide 2023 Dyslexia Awards.

The awards will showcase the diverse skills and strengths of dyslexic people from all corners of the nation but will also recognise the positive impact and vital role that teachers, tutors and learning support staff and managers play in helping individuals.

Government-funded and non-fee-paying educational settings and organisations are invited to submit their nominations for those worthy of the Learning Support Award and Excellent Educator Award before the June 30 deadline.

Other award categories include:
·         Amazing Artist Award (18+)
·         Entrepreneur Award (21+)
·         Community Shining Star Award (20+)
·         Community Shining Star Award (aged 13-19) 
·         Innovation Award (18+)
·         Supportive Employer Award
·         Young Entrepreneur Award (16-21)

Awards founder Elizabeth Wilkinson from Shropshire, who is dyslexic herself and was recently awarded an MBE for her services to dyslexia, said the awards were about showcasing the commitment and inspiration of educators, marking the achievements of dyslexic individuals and celebrating diversity in the workplace to bring about positive changes in society.

“I’ve dedicated almost my entire working career to raising awareness and greater understanding of dyslexia and have had the honour of working with thousands of amazing dyslexics in that time,” said the 51-year-old from Shropshire.

“These awards are about celebrating the amazing talents, skills and achievements of everyday dyslexics, as well as shining a light on excellent educators and supportive employers across the nation.

“So much has been achieved to promote diversity and inclusivity in education, business and society in general but, there is still a long way to go and a lot more work to be done.

“The awards focus on the positives and strengths of amazing individuals – those who are dyslexic but also those who do an excellent job teaching us and the employers who are smart enough to spot out talents and employ us – and we are inviting applications from right across the UK.”

“There are so many terrific educators who ‘get’ that dyslexics offer a vast array of skills, talents and solutions and are working tirelessly to encourage, inspire and empower their dyslexic students to achieve their full potential and it is this work which the awards will recognise.”

Research suggests that one person in 10 is dyslexic. It is a specific learning difficulty (SpLD) which usually manifests mainly as a difficulty with handling language, such as phonics, short term memory and automaticity. 
It is caused by a difference in how the brain processes information but is unrelated to intelligence or other skills. 

Nominations for the 2023 Dyslexia Awards are open to the whole of the UK and the closing date for entries is June 30. Visit the website here https://theddc.org.uk/dyslexiaawards for more information and entry details.