How Dyslexics Need To Learn With Philip Long

Dyslexia can feel like an invisible hill. With the right support, it's amazing how quickly that hill can become a launching pad. In the latest episode of our podcast, I welcomed back Philip Long, who’s been teaching at a private school for dyslexic students. He shared how technology opens all kinds of doors, why emotional support is vital, and how self-advocacy can change a learner’s path.

Philip has spent the last year working hands-on with students who think in different ways. He believes that no two dyslexic learners are alike. By blending customised teaching strategies with the right technology, he’s seen students go from frustrated to flourishing. Whether it’s offering emotional reassurance or introducing assistive tools, the result is the same: more confident students.

Philip’s Year in Education

Before Philip dove into teaching, he had his own experiences with dyslexia. He noticed how quickly technology could break down barriers that would otherwise slow progress. Now he’s showing young people that textbooks and traditional lectures aren’t the only ways to learn.

He described moments where a piece of software made all the difference. For example, text-to-speech apps help students pronounce words so they feel more at ease contributing in class. Those small shifts create bigger changes in how a student sees themselves.

Preparing students also goes beyond classroom hacks. Philip shared stories of encouraging young people to recognise their gifts and push past limiting beliefs. This mental side is often overlooked but can be the spark that helps them feel capable. During the episode, he summed it up perfectly:

“I’ve seen how embracing dyslexia can turn fear into confidence, as soon as you have the right support.” — Philip Long

It’s not just about memorising facts. It’s about feeling resilient and realising you can do more than you thought.

The Power of Technology

Dyslexia can play tricks on how we see letters or process words. That’s where tech steps in. Screen readers, dictation apps, and interactive learning platforms can smooth over those hurdles. Instead of stumbling through note-taking, students might record the lesson or use speech recognition to capture their ideas quickly.

Philip noticed something special about tools like speech-to-text. Students who felt shy or worried about spelling suddenly had a chance to express themselves. They could show their imagination without stumbling over written details. When that block goes away, you get to see a child’s mind in action, which can be pretty exciting.

Some of the tech suggestions included:

• Text-to-speech programmes that read out long passages
• Speech-to-text for generating essays or class responses
• Digital organisers for structuring homework and study schedules

Access to these tools builds independence. It also helps a learner become their own advocate when they leave the classroom and venture into higher education or the workplace.

Embracing Emotional Support

Education isn’t just about marks and grades. Dyslexic students often carry hidden stress from years of feeling behind. That stress can undermine their confidence and stop them from trying new things.

Philip places as much weight on emotional well-being as on academic support. He believes it’s impossible to separate the two. Lessons can be adapted, but if a student feels constantly out of place, the changes won’t matter. Learners need to trust they’re not judged, which fosters the courage to keep going, even on tough days.

Part of emotional support is teaching basic self-care. Encouraging short rests or mindful breathing practices can ease tension. It might sound small, but these habits can help dyslexic students recharge and focus on what’s ahead instead of worrying about mistakes. By combining emotional grounding techniques with practical academic strategies, you cover both heart and head.

Building Self-Worth and Confidence

Dyslexia doesn’t have to be a setback. It can reveal unique perspectives that other thinkers simply don’t have. Recognising this helps students build a sense of worth. Philip highlighted how discovering someone’s brilliance can happen the moment they stop trying to fit into someone else’s mould.

In class, every student might have a distinct learning style. Some respond well to visuals, others to hands-on activities. Rather than force everyone down the same path, Philip personalises tasks to align with a student’s interests. That might be building a model instead of writing a report or creating a video presentation rather than an essay.

He also encourages students to speak up about what they need. That’s the self-advocacy piece. When a learner can say, “I do better with recordings than written notes,” the teacher can adapt. This isn’t just helpful in school. It’s life-changing once they enter the workplace or any other community setting.

Confidence grows as these students see their efforts pay off. Over time, they care less about what they aren’t great at and zero in on what they do best. That shift often leads to a more positive life outlook.

Finding Your Strengths

No one wants to be defined by a label. Dyslexia can feel like it’s limiting, but it can also unlock a new way of solving problems or viewing challenges. Philip spoke about using each student’s strengths to propel them forward. They might excel at 3D thinking, creativity, or storytelling.

These strengths need the right environment to bloom. Technology and emotional support get them started. But discovering your hidden talents comes from testing new approaches to tasks. Maybe you’re a visual learner who thrives on mind maps. Maybe you’ve got a knack for connecting ideas that others don’t see. By exploring these areas, dyslexic students often find real fulfilment.

Philip believes we also need communities that support these explorations. That’s where initiatives like fundraising for more tech or special programmes become critical. They give individuals the space to play to their strengths rather than constantly struggle with weaknesses.

You never know where that hidden spark will take you. Sometimes you need the time and resources to find it.

Key Takeaways

• Technology can be a game-changer: Text-to-speech and speech-to-text tools remove roadblocks.
• Dyslexia is personal: Everyone has different struggles and strengths.
• Ongoing emotional support: It’s as vital as any educational method.
• Self-advocacy matters: Students who speak up receive the help they need.
• Find your brilliance: Use your hidden talents to fuel confidence.
• Community efforts: Donations and awareness build resources for all dyslexic learners.

If you’re curious to learn more about Philip’s journey and how he’s changing the landscape of dyslexic education, check out the full episode. Hear how tech, empathy, and creative teaching methods can bring out the best in learners who think differently. Grab your headphones and take a listen at the top of this page.