What is Dyslexiam?
Dyslexiam has been set up by experienced specialist literacy teacher Kim Smith in order to assess, guide and train dyslexics and their families. As well as working with individuals, Dyslexiam works with schools to assess and tutor dyslexics as well as assist and train teachers with dyslexic pupils.
Background
Kim Smith: After gaining my degree, I trained as a TEFL teacher and started my teaching career in Asia. I went on to teach English to students aged from 6 to 60 in Indonesia, Thailand, Italy and the UK. After returning to the UK, I continued my training gaining a PGCE and Postgraduate Diploma in Advanced Special Needs. I also have specific qualifications for diagnosing and teaching dyslexia and literacy difficulties, awarded by the Dyslexic Association (AMBDA). I am a full member of Patoss (The Professional Association of Teachers of Students with Specific Learning Difficulties) and hold a SpLD - Assessment Practising Certificate - a requirement for assessing and diagnosing dyslexia in children and adults. I currently work and advise in both primary and secondary schools, as well as teaching dyslexic learners literacy, maths and study techniques privately.
My Approach
Kim Smith: Alongside being a professional teacher, dyslexia is in my immediate family and is part of my day to day life. This means that, as well as understanding the theory and best practice in dyslexia support, I understand the ups and downs of having dyslexia and how we all learn differently. I believe that learning should be enjoyable, creative and as much fun as possible and pride myself on the ability to understand and support each individual. I will help you to appreciate and build on your own strengths, rather than focussing on your difficulties. I have had a great deal of success with this approach and helped many dyslexics of all ages. I also have experience working with learners with additional problems such as ADHD, autism, dyspraxia, auditory processing difficulties, dyscalculia, vision and hearing difficulties.
Professional qualifications
Kim Smith: BA HONS, PGCE, TEFL Certificate, Advanced Special Need Diploma, AMBDA and Assessment Practice Certificate.