Pictured: Beth Farrell, Inclusion Coordinator
For Dyslexia Awareness Week (5-11 October), we met with Beth Farrell, an Inclusion Coordinator based at the Tameside Skills Centre and the Greater Manchester SkillCentre Trafford Park, to discuss how the Growth Company supports young people with dyslexia and other additional learning needs. Beth works with learners aged 16 to 18, helping to ensure they have the support, adjustments and confidence needed to succeed in education and progress towards their future careers.
Supporting Every Learner as an Individual
One of the key messages from Beth is that no two learners with dyslexia are the same. While some may need support with reading, others may struggle more with spelling, writing or processing information. Understanding the individual is the starting point for putting the right support in place.
The Inclusion Team works closely with learners to identify practical adjustments that can help them thrive, including coloured overlays, assistive technology, dyslexia-friendly resources and exam access arrangements where needed.
Creating the Right Learning Environment
Beth explained that many young people arrive having already developed their own strategies and coping mechanisms. The role of the Inclusion Team is to build on those strategies rather than make assumptions about what support might be needed.
The team also works closely with tutors to create inclusive learning environments where support is normalised and learners do not feel singled out. Many tutors naturally incorporate dyslexia-friendly teaching strategies into their lessons, helping all learners access information more effectively.
Support Beyond the Classroom
The Growth Company can also put a range of exam access arrangements in place when required. Depending on individual needs, learners may be able to access:
- Modified exam materials
- Separate invigilation
- Readers or scribes
- Screen and font adjustments on digital assessments
These arrangements are carefully planned in advance and are based on evidence of the learner's normal way of working.
Helping Young People Re-engage with Education
Beth highlighted that some learners have previously struggled in education or felt let down by the system. She believes the Skills Centres offer an important bridge between school and further education by providing smaller class sizes, consistent support and a more personalised learning experience.
"We genuinely want learners to succeed and support them onto their chosen career path. Sometimes all it takes is having a conversation and exploring what support could make a difference."
A Rewarding Role
When asked what she enjoys most about supporting learners, Beth said it is seeing the growth and development young people achieve during their time with the Growth Company.
"Every learner is unique. The best part of the job is getting to know them, understanding what they need and seeing the progress they make. Knowing that support can have a positive impact on their future career is incredibly rewarding."
Beth's Advice for Supporting Someone with Dyslexia
Beth's key message is simple: listen to the individual.
"Let the learner lead the conversation. What works for one person may not work for another. It's important to understand what support they need and be prepared to adapt that support as circumstances change."
She also encourages young people to advocate for themselves and speak up about the adjustments that help them perform at their best, whether in education, interviews or the workplace.
As we mark Dyslexia Awareness Week, we're proud of the inclusive support available across our learning centres and of colleagues like Beth Farrell who help learners build confidence, achieve their goals and realise their potential.
