A Simple Way to Raise SpLD Awareness in Schools
- Emma Stokes
- Feb 16
- 2 min read
Understanding Specific Learning Differences (SpLDs) such as dyslexia, DCD/dyspraxia, ADHD, ASD, and dyscalculia is a vital part of building inclusive schools. When students and staff understand how SpLDs affect learning and everyday school experiences, classrooms become more supportive, empathetic, and effective.
Many schools want to improve awareness but struggle to find engaging, age-appropriate resources that are easy to deliver and fit into busy timetables. That’s why I created a ready-to-use SpLD Awareness Resource for schools.
Why SpLD Awareness Matters
Raising awareness benefits everyone in the school community:
Students with SpLDs feel understood and less isolated
Peers develop empathy and respect
Teachers gain greater confidence in inclusive practice
Schools strengthen their commitment to inclusion
Awareness helps move beyond labels and focuses on understanding the individual learner.
Common Challenges for Schools
Schools often tell me they:
Don’t have time to create specialist resources
Aren’t sure how to explain SpLDs in a student-friendly way
Want something engaging, not text-heavy
Need materials that work for assemblies or lessons
These challenges were central to the design of this resource.
A Ready-to-Use SpLD Awareness Resource
This resource has been created by a specialist SpLD teacher and assessor and includes:
A 9-minute animated awareness video
A printable student workbook with structured activities
Classroom posters to reinforce key messages
It is suitable for use in:
KS2 and KS3
Assemblies
PSHE / RSHE lessons
Tutor time
Inclusion or awareness weeks
A preview is available within the shop so schools can view the style and content before purchasing.
What Students Will Learn
Through the video and activities, students learn:
What SpLDs are and how they affect learning
That everyone learns differently
How to be supportive classmates
That strengths and difficulties can exist together
These messages help create a more understanding school environment.
Information for Parents and Carers
If you are a parent or carer and feel your child’s school would benefit from greater SpLD awareness, you are very welcome to share this resource with them.
You could email or speak to the school and say:
Our family has come across an SpLD Awareness Resource that includes a short animated video, workbook activities, and posters for schools. It looks suitable for assemblies and PSHE lessons and has a preview available. I wondered if the school would consider taking a look.
You can direct the school to this page:
Preview Available
A full preview of the resource is available in the shop, so schools can see the video style, workbook activities, and posters before purchasing.
