Jamie’s Dyslexia Revolution: What Teaching Assistants Can Do to Drive Change

“It’s not just about reading and writing. It’s about understanding, belonging, and giving every child a real chance.” – Jamie

The Channel 4 documentary Jamie’s Dyslexia Revolution shines a vital light on the struggles dyslexic learners face in our education system. For teaching assistants (TAs) — who are often the frontline supporters of these learners — Jamie’s campaign is both a wake-up call and an opportunity to make a real difference.

Jamie calls for two critical changes that directly impact the work of teaching assistants:

1. Teacher training must include greater emphasis on SENDCo and neurodiversity.
2. All children should be offered free early dyslexia screening in schools.

Why Teaching Assistants Matter

Between 10–15% of children in every classroom are dyslexic, and when you include other neurodiverse learners, that number can be as high as 25%. Teaching assistants often provide the vital day-to-day support these students need to thrive. Yet, without proper training or early identification, it can feel like an uphill battle.

Gemma Flower, a Tutor and Assessor at Swift, explains:
“We see how anxiety and frustration build when learners don’t get the right help early on. As TAs, we’re in a unique position to notice these struggles and advocate for the support they deserve. But we need the right tools and training to do that effectively.”

The Challenges Dyslexic Learners Face — And How TAs Can Help

Children with dyslexia often experience feelings of shame, anxiety, and low self-worth. They are also at higher risk of bullying and exclusion. Dyslexia can make traditional classroom tasks—reading, writing, spelling—particularly challenging, affecting confidence and progress.

Teaching assistants play a crucial role in:

• Providing tailored, patient support that meets learners where they are.
• Implementing strategies that reduce anxiety and build confidence.
• Supporting early identification by recognizing signs of dyslexia and advocating for assessment.
• Creating a safe, inclusive environment where neurodiverse learners feel valued.

How Swift Training Supports Teaching Assistants

At Swift Teaching Assistant, we understand that great support begins with great training. Our tailored training modules help TAs:

• Understand neurodiversity and the unique challenges dyslexic learners face.
• Learn evidence-based strategies to support literacy and learning difficulties.
• Use practical tools to make lessons accessible and engaging.
• Build confidence in spotting early signs of dyslexia and working collaboratively with teachers and specialists.

Gemma shares:
“Swift’s training is a game-changer. It’s not just about knowing what dyslexia is—it’s about having real strategies to help learners succeed day-to-day. It empowers us to be proactive, not just reactive.”

Building a More Inclusive School Culture

Jamie’s documentary highlights how the current system often fails neurodiverse learners because it relies heavily on traditional academic assessments without adaptations. Teaching assistants are key to shifting this culture:

• By promoting inclusive practices in the classroom.
• By supporting early screening and intervention efforts.
• By collaborating closely with teachers, SENDCo coordinators, and families to tailor learning.

The Bigger Picture: Advocacy and Awareness

Jamie’s campaign is gaining traction, with key figures like the Secretary of State for Education and MPs acknowledging the urgent need for change. As TAs, you can help amplify this message within your schools and communities.

What Can You Do Now?

• Engage with Swift’s training programs to deepen your knowledge and skills around dyslexia and neurodiversity.
• Advocate for early dyslexia screening in your school to catch difficulties before they escalate.
• Champion a culture of understanding and support among colleagues and leadership.
• Share Jamie’s story to raise awareness about the importance of neurodiversity inclusion.

Together, Teaching Assistants Can Lead the Way

Jamie’s Dyslexia Revolution is not just about policy—it’s about people. As teaching assistants, you have the power to transform the learning experience of dyslexic and neurodiverse children every day.

With the right training, tools, and mindset, you can help build an education system where every learner is seen, supported, and celebrated.

Ready to be part of the revolution?

Explore our tailored Swift training for teaching assistants and join the movement to make schools truly inclusive places where all children can thrive.

Visit https://swift-ta.co.uk/ today and start making a difference!