Croydon Dyslexia Association
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2026
2 Meetings
Moving Up and Moving On
Dyslexic and how to cope with transitions — A talk by Jo Rees
Jo Rees
For dyslexic youngsters, transitions can be especially challenging due to their learning differences. Moving to a new school or classroom can be very daunting. Dyslexic children may worry about meeting new teachers and adapting to different routines. They might feel anxious about academic performance and whether they can keep up with peers. Many dyslexic children struggle with managing their emotions, which can lead to frustration or meltdowns during transitions.
This is the second talk Jo Rees has given to CDA, following 'From Survival to Thrival' last September.
Jo and her three children are dyslexic. She was a successful school practitioner, SENCO and inclusion leader. Following a diagnosis of dyslexia in her 30s, she's now a dyslexia specialist, assessor, trainer and coach, and runs a business called 'Another Way Round'. Her children – now in their late teens – have experienced plenty of transitions in their education and Jo has supported them through these.
Jo will talk about:
- Being aware and understanding why children (and adults) find transitions challenging
- The big transition – from summer holidays to September return to school – the preparation you can do at the end of term and in advance
- Smaller transitions – moving from one teacher to another, moving between lessons
- Practical advice and strategies
To join this Zoom meeting, please register in advance by emailing your first name, surname and email address to: [email protected]
The access details will be sent to you by email on the day before the meeting.
Life After School
Dyslexic and Taking on the World - A talk by Margaret Rooke
Margaret Rooke
When you're dyslexic, life at school can feel like a daily grind. What happens to children with dyslexia when they leave school? Here's a chance to find out!
Eight years ago, author Margaret Rooke interviewed 40 children and teenagers for her book Dyslexia is My Superpower (Most of the Time). Last year she found out, for her latest book, what's happening to them now as adults.
On 14 March, she will be sharing some of their stories at our Open Meeting.
Their stories reveal:
- The ups and downs of adult life, and strategies they have used to deal with challenges they've faced
- Top tips for harnessing their strengths and working out the path right for them
- Most of all they show that, no matter how difficult life can feel now, there are choices when students leave high school that can take them to a future they might never have dreamed of
All are welcome - children with adults. Please do tell others who may be interested about this free event.
Venue - Christ Church Purley, on the A235, between 861 & 863 Brighton Road, CR8 2BN
Transport information:
- There is parking available
- Buses 119, 194, 198, 466 stop outside
- Purley rail station is 5 minutes' walk away
No need to book - though, if you have any questions, please email: [email protected]
Archived Meetings
Browse recordings and information from previous years