TOTKO comes to the Summer Programme!

Three weeks ago, in preparation for the start of the Summer Prgoramme, teachers and volunteers took part in a day of training. This year we welcomed an additional workshop from an organisation called TOTKO (Takes One To Know One).

TOTKO’s Learning Disability Awareness workshop was a fascinating insight into learning disabilities (such as dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD) told through first-hand experiences of the challenges that learning disabled people face. Despite its delicate subject, the workshop focused on positive aspects. Did you know that learning disabled people are more likely to have a higher IQ?
We learnt of the importance of early diagnosis, that Steve Jobs and Richard Branson are learning disabled and about its links to depression, unemployment and crime levels. We also discussed stigmas: in particular, the ways in which our teachers could ensure equality in their lessons. Above all, the idea that learning disabilities can be partly supported through more accessible and varied teaching techniques was really refreshing. We also found that focusing on the different ways in which we all learn, incorporating visual, audio and kinesthetics into our teaching could help to engage a learning disabled child.

Last week we invited TOTKO back to run a workshop with the children. The session was titled ‘When I Grow Up’ and asked the children to think about the things they are good at. 

Below is some of the feedback from the children:

“I learned that I can achieve anything in life as long as I push myself and have confidence in myself.” - Zahannah, 12.

“Today I have learnt of amazing people who problems with English and Maths, who have overcome their disability and not let it hold them back. This has shown me that I can be anything I want and all I need is inspiration.” - Belle, 11.

“I learnt there is nothing wrong in being dyslexic.” - Harriet, 12.