Local schools celebrate achieving Dyslexia Friendly Quality Mark

Wiltshire Council has celebrated the achievements of local schools, making a real difference for children and young people with dyslexia, as more schools across the county earn the British Dyslexia Association’s Dyslexia Friendly Quality Mark.

A special event was held at County Hall on 10th July to recognise the commitment and success of Wiltshire schools that have been working towards the Quality Mark, which provides a framework for schools to improve their understanding of dyslexia and to support pupils through high-quality teaching and inclusive practices.

So far, 22 schools in Wiltshire have achieved the award, with a further six working towards it. A third of the schools across the United Kingdom with this quality mark are now in Wiltshire. 

Cllr Jon Hubbard, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: "As someone who is dyslexic myself, I understand firsthand the challenges these young learners face every day. That's why seeing our schools achieve the Dyslexia Friendly Quality Mark means so much to me personally. These schools are going above and beyond to break down the barriers that can make learning feel impossible - barriers I remember all too well from my own school days. Their dedication to creating truly inclusive environments where dyslexic children feel understood, supported and valued gives me tremendous hope. Every child deserves to discover their potential without being held back by learning differences, and these schools are making that a reality."

Ellen Broomé, CEO of the British Dyslexia Association, said: ‘We are incredibly proud of each of the 15 schools that will be attending the event and the other schools in Wiltshire who have already completed the process. These awards affirm their dedication to a supportive, inclusive environment where dyslexic learners can excel.

"With at least three children in every classroom affected by dyslexia, a dyslexia-friendly approach benefits all students. The Dyslexia Friendly Quality Mark is more than an award—it’s a driver for change, promoting early identification, prompt support, and a consistent, inclusive approach across the curriculum. These brilliant Wiltshire schools are leading the way." 
 
Wiltshire Council’s Specialist SEN Service (SSENS) has supported schools through the process, including preparing for the British Dyslexia Association’s verification visits. Staff have praised the “skilful adaptive teaching and effective intervention” they witnessed, as well as the positive relationships and calm, nurturing environments created by school teams.

The Dyslexia Friendly Quality Mark is helping schools across Wiltshire ensure pupils with dyslexia can achieve their full potential and feel confident in their learning. 

For more information and a list of schools holding the Quality Mark, visit: https://localoffer.wiltshire.gov.uk/article/7062/Dyslexia-Friendly-Schools 
 

Our local schools with the Dyslexia Friendly Quality Mark are:

• The Trafalgar School, Downton
• King's Lodge School, Chippenham
• St. Mark's CE Junior School, Salisbury
• Zouch Academy, Tidworth
• St. Peter's CE Primary Academy, Salisbury
• Sarum Academy, Salisbury
• Downton CE Primary School
• Wilton CE Primary School
• New Forest School
• Winterslow Primary School
• Ludgershall Primary School
• The Stonehenge School
• Bemerton St John Primary School