For schools and education
A pupil who struggles to write an answer may need spelling taught, a clearer view of the question, a quieter setting and a familiar way to record and edit their thinking. One adjustment alone may leave the real barrier in place.
In teaching
A child reads simple text slowly but discusses complex ideas confidently. Teach decoding and spelling directly. At the same time, give access to rich texts through reading aloud or audio and discuss ambitious questions. Track both reading progress and higher-level understanding.
In examinations
An approved laptop or extra time can fail in practice if the keyboard is unfamiliar, spellcheck settings differ unexpectedly or other candidates leave noisily during the extra period. Schools should rehearse the permitted setup with the pupil before the examination.
Teacher development
National training guidance covers working memory, explicit teaching, big ideas, adaptive teaching and the removal of scaffolds. We propose paired lesson examples and practice in recognising discrepancies, testing both routes, spotting overload, coordinating adjustments and checking progress.
One short shared account should connect subject teachers, the special educational needs coordinator, the pupil and family. It should record strengths, barriers, what is being tried and when to review it.
For parents and carers
When school reports, assessments and day-to-day experience do not seem to tell the same story, it can be difficult to know where to start. We are developing a one-off consultation to listen to the family’s experience, look across the information they already have and help them identify the questions to take back to school.
The aim is a clear account of the child’s strengths, the possible barriers, what has been tried and what might be checked next. We can help parents prepare for a constructive conversation and support the child to explain what helps them. The consultation does not replace a formal assessment or make an access-arrangements decision for a school.
Enquiry details and availability will be added when this service opens.
Critical thinking
Give pupils a real problem, such as reducing food waste at school. Let them explore possible causes and solutions, and explain their thinking by speaking, recording, drawing or writing. Then help them use evidence to make a short proposal. The teacher can see how each pupil reasons, what gets in their way, and what support helps them express their ideas.