The Holmewood School complete the 5K May challenge to raise awareness for Dyslexia.

We are a small SEN school for pupils primarily with a diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Disorders. Many of our pupils have a co-occurring diagnosis of dyslexia which brings extra challenges for them to learn new information and access the curriculum.

Raising the profile of dyslexia is important to us. Dyslexia can have a big impact on a pupils self-esteem and confidence and so early identification is important. We are lucky that we have a specialist teacher able to diagnose and plan intervention for pupils, however, we realise that other settings often do not have this in place. The British Dyslexia Association offers important training for teachers and our parents have benefited from the free parent training they have provided. We are very grateful.

Family, friends, staff and pupils of The Holmewood School London took part in the challenge. This was shared with staff and friends and family, we had a good response. Individuals took part in the 5k challenge and 2 of our classes; Circle and Metropolitan. Circle showed determination walking in the rain and Metropolitan class enjoyed a sunny challenge.

We all enjoyed the challenge. It was nice being outside and it coincided with Mental Health Week that was focusing on the benefits of being in nature. The fundraisers that took part, talked about the pretty flowers they had seen on their walk or reported back that they enjoyed the solitude and time for self-reflection. Everyone has had a hard year, coping with the pandemic so it was nice to get outside whilst doing something worthwhile for others.

The British Dyslexia Association offers superb training and support for those with dyslexia. Fundraising makes you feel good as well as benefits others that cope with everyday challenges associated with specific learning difficulties.