What Accommodations Can Help Dyslexic Students in School?

A practical guide to classroom support and assistive technology.

If your child has dyslexia, school can sometimes feel harder than it should.

Not because they lack ability.

Not because they are not trying.

But because many classrooms are built around reading speed, written output and working memory. These are areas where dyslexic learners may need support.

The good news is that the right accommodations can make an enormous difference.

When barriers are removed, dyslexic students are able to show what they truly understand.

Written by Laura Gowers, APC-qualified Dyslexia Assessor and experienced SENCO with 23 years in education, supporting families across Kent, Essex and online throughout the UK.

Why Accommodations Matter

Dyslexia affects how the brain processes written language.

This can impact:

• reading fluency

• spelling accuracy

• processing speed

• working memory

• written expression

In a typical classroom, these skills are used constantly.

Without support, students may spend so much energy decoding text that they cannot fully demonstrate their understanding of the subject.

Accommodations reduce this cognitive load.

They do not change what a child knows.

They change how that knowledge can be accessed and expressed.

Classroom Accommodations That Make a Difference

1. Extra Time

Dyslexic students often need more time to process written information.

Providing extra time for:

• reading tasks

• written work

• tests and exams

allows them to work at a pace that matches their processing style.

This is one of the most effective adjustments schools can make.

2. Clear, Structured Instructions

Working memory differences can make it difficult to hold multiple instructions in mind.

Helpful strategies include:

• breaking tasks into smaller steps

• giving instructions both verbally and in writing

• checking understanding before starting

Clarity reduces overwhelm.

3. Reducing Copying from the Board

Copying text can be slow and cognitively demanding.

Instead, teachers can:

• provide printed or digital notes

• share slides in advance

• give partially completed worksheets

This allows students to focus on learning rather than transcription.

4. Dyslexia-Friendly Presentation

The way information is presented matters.

Simple adjustments include:

• larger font sizes

• clear spacing between lines

• simple fonts such as Arial or Verdana

• avoiding dense blocks of text

• using cream or off-white backgrounds

These changes reduce visual stress and improve readability.

5. Alternative Ways to Show Understanding

Dyslexic students often know far more than their written work shows.

Allowing different formats can help, such as:

• oral responses

• recorded explanations

• mind maps

• visual presentations

This shifts the focus from writing ability to actual understanding.

Assistive Technology for Dyslexic Students

Assistive technology is one of the most powerful tools available.

Text-to-Speech

Text-to-speech tools read written text aloud.

This helps students:

• access complex material

• improve comprehension

• reduce reading fatigue

Examples include Read&Write, Microsoft Immersive Reader and built-in accessibility tools.

Speech-to-Text

Speech-to-text allows students to dictate their ideas instead of typing.

This is particularly helpful for:

• longer writing tasks

• essays

• homework

It removes the barrier of spelling and typing speed.

Word Prediction Software

Word prediction tools suggest words as students type.

This supports:

• spelling accuracy

• writing fluency

• confidence

Audiobooks

Audiobooks allow students to access age-appropriate content without the decoding barrier.

Listening while following the text can also support reading development.

Reasonable Adjustments in UK Schools

In the UK, dyslexia is recognised under the Equality Act 2010.

Schools are expected to consider reasonable adjustments to support students.

These may include:

• extra time in exams

• access to a reader or scribe

• use of assistive technology

• adapted classroom materials

A formal dyslexia assessment can help identify the most appropriate adjustments and provide recommendations schools can implement.

What Accommodations Are Really About

Accommodations are not about lowering expectations.

They are about removing unnecessary barriers.

When dyslexic students receive the right support, they are able to:

• access the curriculum more confidently

• demonstrate their true ability

• engage more fully in learning

• rebuild self-belief

Across many assessments, the biggest shift is not academic.

It is emotional.

Students realise they are not behind because they are less capable.

They simply learn differently.

The right classroom accommodations and assistive technologies can transform a dyslexic student’s experience of school.

Small adjustments create big change.

If you are unsure what support your child needs, a professional dyslexia assessment can provide clarity, direction and practical recommendations.

For families in Kent and Essex, and for those accessing online assessments across the UK, understanding how your child learns is the first step towards helping them thrive. Find out more about a dyslexia assessment https://www.thisisdyslexia.co.uk/dyslexia-assessment-children-uk