1. About This Handbook
This handbook helps tutors support learners who have:
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Dyslexia (reading and spelling)
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Dyspraxia (movement and coordination)
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Dyscalculia (maths and numbers)
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Dysgraphia (writing and fine motor skills)
These are called Specific Learning Differences (SpLDs).
They affect how a person learns — not their intelligence.
2. Tutor’s Role
As a tutor, your job is to:
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Teach in an accessible way
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Make learning fair
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Reduce barriers
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Build confidence
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Offer support and adjustments
Your support can change a learner’s life.
3. Understanding Each Learning Difference
Dyslexia
Affects:
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Reading
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Spelling
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Memory
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Processing speed
Learners may:
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Mix up letters
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Read slowly
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Struggle with long text
Support by:
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Using simple fonts
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Breaking text into chunks
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Reading instructions aloud
Dyspraxia
Affects:
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Coordination
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Balance
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Organisation
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Motor skills
Learners may:
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Struggle with handwriting
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Drop things
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Find planning difficult
Support by:
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Allowing typing
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Giving extra time
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Using step-by-step instructions
Dyscalculia
Affects:
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Numbers
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Time
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Money
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Sequences
Learners may:
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Struggle with maths basics
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Misread numbers
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Find timetables confusing
Support by:
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Using visual aids
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Using real-life examples
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Teaching slowly and clearly
Dysgraphia
Affects:
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Writing
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Spelling
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Hand control
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Written expression
Learners may:
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Have messy handwriting
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Tire quickly when writing
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Avoid written tasks
Support by:
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Allowing speech-to-text
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Using laptops
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Reducing writing tasks
4. Signs a Learner May Need Support
Look for learners who:
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Avoid reading or writing
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Take longer to finish work
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Forget instructions
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Struggle copying from boards
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Have low confidence
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Become anxious or frustrated
Do not assume laziness — they may need support.
5. Creating an Inclusive Learning Environment
Good practice includes:
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Clear lesson structure
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Visual timetables
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Calm classrooms
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Minimal distractions
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Accessible handouts
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Predictable routines
Consistency reduces anxiety.
6. Communication Tips
Use:
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Plain English
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Short sentences
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Bullet points
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Visual symbols
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Demonstrations
Avoid:
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Long verbal instructions
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Rushing learners
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Information overload
Always check understanding.
7. Reasonable Adjustments
Adjustments help level the playing field.
Examples:
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Extra time
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Breaks
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Assistive technology
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Recorded lessons
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Coloured overlays
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Large print
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Alternative assessments
Adjustments are support — not unfair advantage.
8. Assistive Technology
Helpful tools include:
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Speech-to-text software
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Text-to-speech readers
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Spellcheckers
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Audiobooks
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Mind-mapping apps
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Calculators
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Recording devices
Technology increases independence.
9. Teaching Strategies
Use multi-sensory teaching:
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Visual (images, charts)
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Auditory (discussion, audio)
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Kinaesthetic (hands-on tasks)
Also:
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Repeat key points
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Chunk information
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Use colour coding
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Give examples
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Allow practice time
10. Supporting Emotional Wellbeing
Learners may feel:
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Embarrassed
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Anxious
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Frustrated
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“Not good enough”
Support by:
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Praising effort
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Building strengths
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Encouraging self-advocacy
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Listening without judgement
Confidence improves learning.
11. Working With Support Services
You may work with:
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SEN teams
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Disability advisors
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Educational psychologists
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Support workers
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Families/carers
Sharing information improves support.
12. Tutor Do’s and Don’ts
Do
✔ Be patient
✔ Be flexible
✔ Give extra time
✔ Use visuals
✔ Check understanding
Don’t
✘ Rush learners
✘ Shame mistakes
✘ Overload information
✘ Assume lack of ability
✘ Ignore support needs
13. Lesson Planning Checklist (Easy Read)
Before teaching, ask:
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Is my text accessible?
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Are instructions clear?
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Are visuals included?
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Is extra time built in?
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Are adjustments ready?
Accessible planning prevents barriers.
14. Example Easy Read Lesson Structure
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Welcome & recap
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Learning goals (simple)
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Demonstration
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Guided practice
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Independent task
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Break
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Review learning
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Questions
Routine supports memory.
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