The Dyslexia Institute has modified its training courses to make it easier, and cheaper, for teachers to gain specialist qualifications. The one-year, part-time postgraduate diploma course has been extended to two years and an additional one-year part-time postgraduate certificate has been introduced. This can also be studied through distance learning over three to four terms and may act as the first part of the diploma. The courses, taught at various UK locations, are open to qualified teachers with at least two years’ experience. All have a teaching practice component and graded course work assignments, but no examinations.

Yanick Oligario, tel: 01784 463851; training@dyslexia-inst.org.uk ; www.dyslexia-inst.org.uk

The Dyslexia Institute Training Service is offering a six-month course in dyslexia and literacy for assistants working in mainstream classrooms or with SEN pupils.   It involves attendance for one morning a week for one-and-a-half terms, another 50 hours’ private study and some practical work in school. There are no exams.   It is recommended that a teacher-mentor be assigned to the assistant, who will be invited to a twilight session at the beginning and end of the course. Accreditation has been applied for. Provisional fee: £350 plus optional materials worth approximately £90. 

The Training Administrator, Unit 7, 80 High Street, Egham, Surrey TW20 9HE, 01784 480520; training@dyslexia-inst.org.uk