House of Commons · Bill Debate
02 December 2022 · 6 other contributors
Opened by Matthew Hancock Con West Suffolk
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Matthew Hancock raised concerns about the dyslexia identification and support bill - clause 1: introduction of dyslexia screening in primary schools and teacher training on dyslexic support in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
Key points
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
The Bill proposes to screen all children for dyslexia at primary school, provide teachers with adequate training to teach dyslexic children effectively, and improve identification rates which currently stand at just one in five. The aim is to address systemic discrimination against neurodivergent children, enhance literacy levels, reduce crime rates, and foster economic growth by equipping individuals with the necessary support from an early age.
Raised concerns about differential access to examination accommodations for those identified as dyslexic, implying potential inequities in the current system.
Expressed gratitude and appreciation for Matthew Hancock's efforts to highlight the issue of dyslexia support. Emphasised the importance of enhancing educational and employment outcomes for neurodivergent individuals.
Admired the right hon Gentleman's campaign on dyslexia, inquired about his personal experience at age 18 and why support was lacking before then.
While supportive of the aims, Matt Western believes that additional legislation may not be necessary. He suggests focusing on reforming the existing system through continuous professional development programmes for teachers to ensure they have appropriate training in supporting pupils with SEND, including dyslexia.
Jackie Doyle-Price supports the Bill and believes it will help improve services for people with neurodiverse conditions. She highlights that only one in five dyslexic individuals are diagnosed, leading to a miserable experience at school for the other four out of five.
Claire Coutinho congratulates Matt Hancock on introducing the Bill and expresses her commitment to improving outcomes for children with SEND. She promises to work towards early identification, appropriate teacher training, and setting standards to ensure that children get the help they need.