The Dyslexic Collective have been working with Peebles High School since 2023. Lilian and Kirsty realised all the parents were approaching the school to ask for the same information. They wanted to help students with dyslexia, but also wanted to help make the process of having a diagnosed child attending High school an easier situation for parents.
With parents in mind, Lilian and Kirsty wrote the ‘Tool Kit’, a document which they wished they had when their children initially went to High School. The tool kit is a clear document written to explain the journey of a dyslexic child at PHS. After approaching the school, Peebles High improved the draft by adding their knowledge and expertise; and the document is now available on the school web site.
Peebles High School went further, and created a working group consisting of parents, students and teachers to discuss dyslexia, and from this they developed a policy for the school.
Peebles High School has a new ‘Dyslexic Ambassador’ group for 1st year students. These are attended by seniors who also have the dyslexic diagnosis. The 1st years enjoy this group as they can chat about problems they may be facing dues to dyslexia. It also helps increase the confidence of the older children who help at these meetings. The Dyslexic Collective supplied pin badges for these meets and also received sponsorship from Greggs for ‘treats’ to be shared at each event.
The Dyslexic Collective then worked with the school to discover what practical help they could bring the students, and from this discussion, they raised enough to purchase:
- I-pad cases
- Stylus pens
- Headphones
- Specialised Stationary
- A dyslexic box for each classroom
- A welcome pack containing equipment for each child when they arrive at High School
Confidence Club
The Dyslexic Collective realised through working closely with the school, and through observing dyslexic students, that losing confidence in themselves, and their abilities was an area which was impacting on students final results from school. The Dyslexic Collective developed a ‘Confidence Club’ which is available to all dyslexic children of High School age in the PHS catchment area. These are available if you do not attend the local High School also. This is in early stages so far, and these will be running when funding allows. These ‘Confidence Clubs’ are spaces where kids are exposed to a relaxing way of learning something new, and something outwith the school environment. This can help dyslexic students understand that they can be skilled in many areas of life, and that can build their confidence when faced with typical struggles in school.