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- abstract below

Adult Literacy Group - an Ace Combination of Tuition and Support

Pam Cookney and Colette Pollock

The Helen Arkell Dyslexia Centre rwood@arkellcentre.org.uk

Abstract

For the past three years the Helen Arkell Dyslexia Centre has been funded to hold a free adult literacy group one evening a week during term time. Two specialist teachers run the group which is for anyone over sixteen years of age who: Has difficulties with reading-writing - spelling - numbers - organisation Needs help with writing letters and reports, job applications, reading to their own children Thinks they may be dyslexic Wants to try again at college The group has about twelve regular members who have become mutually supportive. All individuals have grown in confidence and self esteem and several have successfully applied for new jobs. A 'welcome pack ' has been developed for new members and each goes through this with a tutor. It includes questionnaires to build up background information, needs and learning style. Each evening includes main group work, during which time the other tutor is able to give a smaller group more focused attention which may involve individual needs such as form filling, applications etc. There is also a sociable coffee break and this has become an important part of the evening. It may develop into a whole group discussion or there is a final group activity to finish the evening. This thriving group is now providing a vital service and as such, is a model which could be replicated elsewhere.

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