The Springfields Academy in Wiltshire is celebrating a remarkable milestone after becoming the first specialist setting in the country to achieve the Dyslexia Friendly Award from the British Dyslexia Association (BDA).
The award recognises outstanding practice in supporting learners with dyslexia and reflects the school’s commitment to inclusive education, staff training, and empowering pupils to thrive through understanding their individual learning needs.
Working in partnership with the Wiltshire Specialist SEND Service, the school has introduced a range of strategies, resources, and awareness campaigns to help pupils and families better understand dyslexia. These include practical guidance for home and school, dedicated parent information sessions, and a collection of helpful videos exploring ways to support dyslexic learners.
The BDA’s Dyslexia Friendly Award provides a national framework to help schools improve understanding and provision for dyslexic pupils. Achieving the award signals to students, staff, and parents that the school is an inclusive, understanding, and supportive place to learn.
Nicola Whitcombe, Headteacher at The Springfields Academy, said:
“Achieving the Dyslexia Friendly Award is a wonderful milestone for our school community. It reflects the hard work our staff have put in to support students and their families, and it reinforces our commitment to raising awareness, understanding, and appreciation of the unique strengths that dyslexic students bring to our classrooms.”
Tom Leverage, CEO of Reach South Academy Trust, added:
“We are incredibly proud that The Springfields Academy has become the first specialist setting to achieve the British Dyslexia Association’s Dyslexia Friendly Award. This recognition highlights the dedication of our staff to providing tailored support, celebrating learning differences, and creating an inclusive environment where every child can thrive.”
Dyslexia affects around 10% of the population, yet it remains widely misunderstood. It is a neurological difference that can influence how people process information — affecting reading, writing, and memory — but many dyslexic individuals also show exceptional strengths in creativity, problem-solving, and reasoning.
The Springfields Academy’s achievement not only celebrates best practice but also serves as an inspiration for other schools seeking to create truly inclusive learning environments across the UK.
