Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) with Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD) PGCert

University of Chester

Our specialist MA in Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) with Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD) course is designed for professionals like you, and you'll be able to make a real difference to the outcomes of children and young people. Through this course, you will become adept at identifying, assessing, supporting, and advocating for individuals with the SpLD dyslexia. You'll be given a specific focus on dyslexia and be taught by expert practitioners in the field. Our team is comprised of specialists who are constantly informed by the very latest research, policies, and practices and who are perfectly equipped to develop your skills. You will engage in critical evaluation and practitioner research, will make informed contributions to the development of policy and practice in your professional setting/s, and learn via a meticulously tailored curriculum. More on this can be found in the 'What You'll Study' section below.

If you wish to focus less on dyslexia, are more interested in the general SEND element of the course, you might want to check out our MA/PGDip/PGCert in Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND). On this course, there are alternative optional modules for you to choose within your studies.

On the MA SEND with SpLD course, you’ll study shared modules with the wider cohort of MA SEND students. This will allow you to gain a wider understanding of current and future trends in SEND and develop invaluable networking opportunities with a range of professionals. The blend of students from different professional backgrounds enables discussion, debate and the sharing of experiences in a supportive and welcoming environment, facilitated by staff who are actively involved in the field of special educational needs and disability.

This SEND with SpLD option is typically suited for educators, or for those who work in therapeutic settings, including schools, specialist provisions, universities, colleges, and local authorities. It will also enhance your practices if you are a professional working with children and young people in a variety of roles such as children's services and informal educational settings. Successful completion of the course will enable you to apply for accreditation by professional bodies (including the British Dyslexia Association, Patoss and SASC), and you will be able to pursue roles as a specialist dyslexia teacher, assessor, or consultant, working in educational institutions, private practice, or policy-making bodies.