Education
Edge Hill University supports national call for educational change to support neurodiverse children
1 day ago
On Monday 9 June, world renowned chef Jamie Oliver released a powerful documentary on Channel 4 focused on the importance of how schools support neurodiverse children.
‘Jamie’s Dyslexia Revolution’ highlights the challenges faced by children with dyslexia and other forms of neurodiversity within the education system. The 50-year-old, who is the second highest British selling author, was labelled ‘slow’ before learning the truth about having dyslexia. The latest statistics show approximately 10% of the UK population are dyslexic, and the messaging in the documentary is clear – everyone is committed to doing their best for the children and young people in their care, but the education system is under pressure, and this is impacting children’s outcomes and futures.
As one of the UK’s leading providers of teaching training, Edge Hill University joins the Jamie Oliver pledge that no teacher will qualify without the necessary tools to teach all children, whatever their needs. This commitment goes beyond dyslexia, encompassing ADHD, autism, dyspraxia and other forms of neurodivergence.
Dr Helen O’Keeffe, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Dean of the Faculty of Education at Edge Hill said:
“We are delighted to be collaborating with The Jamie Oliver Group on this vital work and proud to offer our support to the Initial Teacher Education pledge.
“As one of the largest providers of Initial Teacher Education, our mission is to work creatively with others to enhance life chances.
“We are committed to enabling the next generation of teachers to teach everyone in their care, know their responsibilities and build their baseline knowledge through rich and diverse developmental experiences, ensuring all children and young people can reach and exceed their potential.”
Every teacher that qualifies from Edge Hill will:
- Understand dyslexia and how to recognise and support it in the classroom.
- Be familiar with the full spectrum of neurodiversity, including ADHD, autism and dyspraxia, and how these needs may present and overlap.
- Be equipped to reduce barriers to learning by adapting teaching, planning inclusive lessons, assessing fairly and using reasonable adjustments and technology.
- Understand how to create classrooms where every child feels safe, understood, and able to thrive – where difference is not just accommodated but celebrated.
- Know their responsibilities under the SEND Code of Practice and how to work collaboratively with families, specialists and school leaders.
Michelle Pearson, Head of Initial Teacher Education Strategy, Faculty of Education, Edge Hill University added:
“As an outstanding provider of initial teacher education, we recognise the importance of staying closely aligned with our school partners and the evolving needs of their pupils.
“We are committed to preparing our trainee teachers to help every child reach their full potential. Through collaboration with the Jamie Oliver Group and other partners, we aim to build a thriving community of practice that supports everyone across the education sector.”
As part of the Edge Hill’s commitment to support Jamie Oliver’s campaign, the University is running a free one hour online ‘Introduction to Dyslexia’ programme, led by the faculty’s experienced Dyslexia Course Lead, Kate Sutton.
There are four dates to choose from and they are open to everyone. The sessions are designed to offer expert insight into dyslexia. The session provides insight into the key signs educators should watch for and presents effective strategies to support children and young people with dyslexia.
The dates are as follows:
Thursday 26 June 6-7pm
Wednesday 2 July 7-8pm
Monday 7 July 5-6pm
Tuesday 8 July 6-7pm
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